Civilian bodies discovered in Mambasa; several residents missing after ADF attacks

The security situation in the Mambasa territory of Ituri province remains dire, with the discovery of at least five civilian bodies in the Bandimboyo region following recent attacks blamed on the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels. The violence, which reportedly occurred between July 30 and 31, has left residents in fear and prompted new displacements.

Adding to the crisis, several inhabitants, including children, are missing after abductions near Teturi, a significant trading hub. Local civil society actors report that at least eight people were taken in a village about 40 minutes away. The fate of these individuals remains unknown.

This persistent insecurity has led many residents to abandon their villages, seeking refuge in safer areas, including the administrative center of Mambasa. Even rumors of ADF presence are enough to trigger panic and population movements, exacerbating the vulnerability of communities already affected by years of conflict. The discovery of bodies in Bandimboyo, reportedly by residents returning after fleeing earlier violence, underscores the brutality of the attacks. The exact number of victims found has not yet been officially confirmed.

In response to the escalating abductions and attacks, local civil society groups are urging military and administrative authorities to enhance protective measures. They believe increased security presence in exposed areas could deter armed groups and reassure the population. As searches continue for the abducted individuals, communities in Mambasa live in anxious anticipation of measures to end the ongoing insecurity.