In a horrific incident in the Democratic Republic of Congo, approximately 20 churchgoers were killed during a night vigil when attacked by fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces, an affiliate linked to the Islamic State. Local officials report continuing investigations into the attack, which also saw businesses looted and set ablaze.
Tragic Attack in DR Congo: Churchgoers Targeted by Islamic State Affiliate
Tragic Attack in DR Congo: Churchgoers Targeted by Islamic State Affiliate
A deadly assault by the Allied Democratic Forces leaves dozens dead during a church vigil in Komanda, highlighting the ongoing violence linked to extremist groups in the region.
Dozens of lives were claimed in a brutal attack by an affiliate of the Islamic State (IS) in the north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) late on Tuesday, local officials announced. Around 20 of the deceased were worshippers participating in a night vigil at a church in Komanda, where militant fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) unleashed violence. Besides the fatalities, many businesses in the area were looted and set on fire.
The ADF, originally formed in Uganda during the 1990s, arose in response to alleged government oppression of Muslims. Over time, these fighters shifted their base to the DRC, where they have consistently targeted civilians across religious lines, also continuing their attacks in Uganda. Research indicates that nearly 90% of operations for ISIS now originate from its affiliates within Africa.
Dieudonne Duranthabo, a representative of civil society in Komanda, informed the Associated Press that the death toll could rise further as recovery efforts continue. "More than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside [the church] and we have recorded at least three charred bodies and several houses burned," he noted, emphasizing that a search for additional victims is underway. Local priest Father Aime Lokana Dhego reported at least 31 fatalities among members of the Eucharistic Crusade movement alongside multiple injuries and disappearances of young people.
While the UN-backed Radio Okapi estimates the death toll to be as high as 43, military officials have confirmed only 10 casualties thus far. The DRC has worked with the Ugandan military since 2021 to counter ADF violence, yet attacks persist.
Komanda lies within Ituri province, an area rich in mineral resources that has been the center of conflict among various armed groups for many years. As the situation in the DRC remains precarious, the impact of extremist violence continues to disrupt local communities and challenge efforts for peace and stability.
