DRC: Suspected CODECO militants attack mining site in Aru Territory, Ituri Province, Aug. 28

Event

A group of armed militants attacked the Shaba mining quarry at Kandoi in Ituri Province's Aru Territory during the evening of Aug. 28, leaving at least 14 people dead and nine others injured. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the assailants also kidnapped an unspecified number of people. Although no group has as yet claimed responsibility for the attack, local officials suspect the involvement of the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO). Shaba is an artisinal gold mining site. The incident follows a similar attack in the Djugu Territory on Aug. 27, in which at least nine civilians and one soldier were killed by suspected CODECO militants.

A heightened security presence is likely in the Djugu and Aru territories along the border with Uganda and Lake Albert in the coming days. Further violence, including retaliatory attacks, cannot be ruled out over the short term.

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

Consult local security partners regarding the viability of traveling in Aru and Djugu Territory. If travel is necessary, travel in convoy and during daylight hours only. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Adhere to directives issued by local authorities.