DRC: ADF rebels release 14 hostages in North Kivu March 3

Event

On Sunday, March 3, Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels reportedly released 14 hostages near Oicha (North Kivu province). According to local officials, the individuals were kidnapped during an ADF attack on the village of Mamove on February 24.

Context

The Allied Democratic Forces (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 remain vigilant for militant activity and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.