Security deteriorates in Mambasa, Ituri, and North Kivu

The security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to worsen, particularly in the Ituri province and the northern parts of North Kivu. In the Mambasa territory of Ituri, recent attacks by suspected ADF rebels have resulted in the deaths of at least 32 civilians and the abduction of several others within a 72-hour period. The assaults targeted the localities of Njiapanda-Bela and Lukaya.

These violent incidents have triggered significant population displacement. Residents from the directly affected villages and surrounding areas have fled their homes, driven by a pervasive climate of fear and uncertainty fueled by the rebels' advance. The escalating violence has created a major security crisis across North Kivu, characterized by recurrent massacres, forced recruitment into armed groups, and systematic pillaging.

Civil society representatives in North Kivu issued a solemn declaration on Tuesday, July 21, in Mangina, Beni territory. They presented a damning assessment of the atrocities committed against civilians, directly implicating the ADF rebels. The activism of this armed group is also impacting the Haut-Uélé and Tshopo provinces, extending the reach of insecurity.

To address this deteriorating situation, a discussion is planned featuring Abdallah Pene Mbaka, a national deputy and former governor of Ituri; Carly Nzanzu Kasivita, a national deputy from Beni and vice-president of the defense and security commission; and Ildefonse Bwakyanakazi, a researcher specializing in the ADF issue. Their insights are expected to shed light on the complex dynamics driving the escalating violence in the region.