20 Nov 2019 | 09:34 PM UTC
DRC: Suspected ADF militants kill up to 21 in North Kivu province November 19-20 /update 1
Suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants kill as many as 21 people in two attacks in North Kivu province November 19-20; similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
Suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants killed as many as 21 people in two attacks in North Kivu province overnight (local time) from Tuesday, November 19, into Wednesday, November 20. According to civil-society reports, ADF militants killed seven people in Beni and at least 14 others in Mavete, near Oicha. Demonstrators reportedly erected barricades on National Highway 4 in Boikene on Wednesday, demanding security forces protect communities in the area.
Similar militant 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. There has been local and international speculation regarding potential links between ADF rebels and Islamic State (IS) militants.
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.
