DRC: Army attacked in Ituri and Kasaï Central provinces September 29-30

Event

Further attacks carried out by rebel militias against DRC armed forces (FARDC) took place in the provinces of Kasaï Central and Ituri September 29-30. On Saturday, September 29, rebel forces attacked an army position in Linga (Ituri province), killing at least two soldiers and three civilians. According to a military spokesperson, nine assailants were also killed.

On September 30, rebel militias attacked an FARDC position in Nganza (Kasaï Central province). According to a military source, at least eight assailants were killed; however, the exact number of casualties remains unknown as of October 1.

Security operations are underway in both areas. Nevertheless, further such attacks are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Numerous armed groups are active across the DRC, including ethnic self-defense militias. Violent clashes between these groups and government forces, as well as between rival groups, are common.

The Congolese government's limited presence in the eastern and central provinces, including Ituri and Kasaï Central, coupled with the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias) have led to continued insecurity in these areas.

Advice

A number of Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the east and northeast of the country, as well as to the three central Kasaï provinces, due to poor security conditions, including the high risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice should be sought prior to travel.