The recent assault in the Democratic Republic of Congo's Komanda town, attributed to the Islamic State-aligned Allied Democratic Forces, resulted in the deaths of at least 31 churchgoers, with local officials warning of a higher body count as recovery efforts continue.
Deadly Church Attack in DR Congo Linked to Islamic State Affiliate
Deadly Church Attack in DR Congo Linked to Islamic State Affiliate
Dozens killed as Allied Democratic Forces target worshippers during vigil in Komanda.
A tragic incident occurred in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where an attack linked to the Islamic State-affiliated group, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), left dozens dead during a church service. Local officials report that around 20 victims were worshippers attending a night vigil at a church in the town of Komanda when they were ambushed by ADF fighters. In addition to the fatalities, nearby businesses faced looting and arson during the chaos.
The ADF has its origins in Uganda, emerging in the 1990s with claims of government persecution of Muslims. Over time, it has established itself in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it perpetrates attacks against civilians of diverse faiths, as well as carrying out operations in Uganda. This group is now recognized as part of the Islamic State's Central African Province, which also encompasses a faction in Mozambique.
Dieudonne Duranthabo, a local civil society leader, indicated that the death toll could rise as search-and-recovery efforts progress. He reported that "more than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside of the church," alongside the discovery of three burned bodies and numerous homes set ablaze. In contrast, local priest Father Aime Lokana Dhego updated the toll to at least 31 dead, reporting that six individuals sustained critical injuries and that several young people were kidnapped.
According to the UN-sponsored Radio Okapi, the estimated death count reaches 43; however, military representatives noted that they could only confirm ten fatalities. Despite a 2021 agreement allowing Ugandan troops into DR Congo to assist in combating the ADF, violent incidents persist. The town of Komanda, located in the mineral-rich Ituri province, has been a battleground for various armed factions over the years.
