DRC: Gunmen kill two soldiers in North Kivu province March 5

Event

Suspected Maï-Maï militiamen attacked a military position in the village of Kitakandya (North Kivu province) on Tuesday, March 5. According to reports, at least two members of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and one militiaman were killed in the fighting. Similar Maï-Maï attacks targeting military positions are possible in North Kivu province over the coming days and weeks.

Context

The government's limited presence in the DRC's 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 continued insecurity in the area. Humanitarian organizations have stated that security conditions in North and South Kivu provinces present a major obstacle to delivering humanitarian assistance to those in need as kidnappings, including of Congolese and foreign aid workers, are frequent in the regions.

Advice

Individuals in North Kivu province 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.