DRC: Five civilians killed near Oicha (North Kivu) November 11

Event

On Monday, November 11, five civilians were killed by presumed militants from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Mayi Moya on the RN4, near Oicha (Beni territory; North-Kivu). The attack comes amid ongoing security operations in the eastern region to tackle armed groups. Similar militant attacks are to be expected in North Kivu province over the near term, as the offensive against militia groups is expected to continue.

Context

The government's limited presence in the DRC's eastern provinces, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias, have led to continued insecurity in the area. The ADF is a Ugandan Islamist militant group that has been active in North Kivu province since the late 1990s. The group has also been blamed for attacks in neighboring Ituri province in recent months. There has been local and international speculation regarding potential links between ADF rebels and Islamic State (IS) militants, who have claimed multiple attacks in North Kivu province. IS has attributed such attacks to fighters from its "Central Africa Province."

On November 5, at least ten civilians were killed in a similar attack in Oicha. Twenty-one others were abducted. Those latest attacks are believed to be retribution for recent security forces' operations in the area.

Advice

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