13 Jun 2024 | 12:23 PM UTC
DRC: Assailants attack civilians in Lubero Territory, North Kivu, June 12
Suspected Islamist militants attack locality based in Lubero Territory, North Kivu, DRC, June 12. At least 25 people killed.
Suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) assailants attacked a locality based in Lubero Territory, North Kivu Province, on June 12. The attack left at least 25 people dead; the casualty toll may be higher. The exact location of the attack is unclear. According to military officials, it is one of the first times ADF elements have been spotted in Lubero. This follows a series of attacks attributed to the ADF group in Beni Territory bordering Lubero in recent days.
The assailants remain at large, and further attacks against civilian and military targets are likely over the coming months in Lubero and Beni territories.
Consider deferring nonessential travel to conflict-affected areas in eastern DRC until the situation stabilizes. Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in the region. Reconfirm the status of roads and border crossings before departure. Travel in convoy and during daylight hours only. Adhere to directives issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.
The resurgence of ADF attacks on civilians further south is likely due to strong military pressure exerted on the group by an ongoing joint military operation known as Operation Shuuja between the Uganda Peoples' Defense Forces (UDPF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) targeting ADF militants.
