Over 300 civilians killed in five months by ADF attacks in Ituri and North Kivu

The Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern provinces of Ituri and North Kivu have seen over 300 civilian deaths in ADF attacks since the beginning of 2026, highlighting a persistent security crisis. The most recent attack occurred on the night of May 30-31, targeting a camp of the indigenous Mbuti people in Beni. Seven individuals from the Mbuti community, including a woman and the well-known comedian Shukrani Nzanzu Mangese along with family members, were killed. Several others remain missing following the assault.

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We strongly condemn the murderous attack perpetrated on the night of May 30 to 31, 2026 against a camp of the indigenous Mbuti people in Ngadi.

The UN Joint Human Rights Office (BCNUDH) has strongly condemned the attack and called for an independent and impartial investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. The agency also stressed the need for authorities to enhance the protection of civilian populations and to deploy urgent humanitarian assistance to those affected.

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We ask for an independent and impartial investigation to formally identify the perpetrators of this attack and bring them to justice.

This latest tragedy underscores the ongoing vulnerability of the Mbuti people. Already facing displacement, loss of ancestral lands, and limited access to aid, these indigenous communities are disproportionately affected by the persistent violence in the Beni region. The BCNUDH warns that their situation is becoming increasingly precarious amidst the ongoing conflict.

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We also call on the authorities to strengthen the protection of civilian populations and request the deployment of urgent humanitarian assistance for the survivors.