DRC: Suspected militants kill at least 41 people in an armed attack in Bule, Djugu Territory, Ituri Province, June 12

Event

Suspected militants attacked the LaLa internally displaced persons (IDP) camp in Bule, Djugu Territory, Ituri Province, around 02:00 June 12, killing at least 41 people; arson and theft were reported. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. However, reports indicate that the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) militants are suspected.

The LaLa IDP camp is located approximately 3 km (1.8 mi) from Bule.

A heightened security presence will likely remain in the area over the coming days. Further violence and attacks are likely as government forces attempt to regain control of the eastern provinces. Officials in the DRC could implement movement restrictions, including curfews and vehicle checks, in the impacted area.

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.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Bule received approximately 70,000 IDPs April 15-May 15 due to ongoing armed violence in the region.

Advice

Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in the affected area. Travel in convoy and during daylight hours only. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Heed the instructions of local authorities.