DRC: Suspected ADF rebels kill three in North Kivu January 24

Event

Suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels attacked a vehicle on the RN4 road near the village of Mayimoya (North Kivu province) on Thursday, January 24. According to local sources, at least three people were killed in the incident. Similar ADF attacks are possible in North Kivu province over the near term.

Context

The ADF is a Ugandan Islamist militant group that has been active in North Kivu province since the late 1990s. Notably, the group is suspected of having carried out an attack on UN peacekeepers in Beni region in December 2017, killing at least 15 peacekeepers and wounding some 53 others. In general, the Congolese government's limited presence in the eastern provinces, including North Kivu, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias) have led to major security issues in the area.

Advice

Individuals in North Kivu province, particularly near Beni, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.