DRC: Armed clashes have been reported in several villages in Ituri Province, as of April 25 /update 1

Event

Clashes are reportedly ongoing in Ituri Province, northern DRC, between Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) militants and the independentist movement of the Front for Patriotic Resistance in Ituri (FPIC), as of April 25. According to reports, fighting began on April 23 and has claimed the lives of at least 19 people; the number of injured is unclear, and the death toll will likely increase in the coming days. CODECO militants are also suspected of having killed seven people and injured seven others in separate attacks overnight April 23-24 in the Akaba, Ongoa, and Rodo villages in Aru Territory.

Violence could continue in the coming days. Heightened security, with the implementation of movement restrictions, including road closures and curfews, is likely in the affected areas.

Context

The threat of militant violence is severe in eastern regions of the DRC despite the implementation of a state of siege in Ituri and North Kivu. Fatal attacks and kidnappings are regularly carried out by some of the numerous armed groups operating in the east of the country. Militants typically employ significant and indiscriminate violence in such assaults, and foreign personnel may be targeted in attacks due to the perception that they are wealthy and vulnerable.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to conflict-affected areas in northeastern DRC until the situation stabilizes. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in and around the impacted locations. Travel in convoy and during daylight hours only. Adhere to directives issued by local authorities. Reconfirm the status of public transportation, road routes, and border crossings before departure.