22 Jun 2024 | 08:54 AM UTC
DRC: Suspected CODECO militants kill up to 36 in Lodjo area, Djugu Territory, Ituri Province, June 20-21
Suspected CODECO militants kill up to 36 civilians in Lodjo area, Djugu Territory, Ituri Province, DRC, June 20-21. Further attacks likely.
Suspected Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) militants attacked several localities around the Lodjo area, Djugu Territory, Ituri Province, on June 21 and 22. Conflicting reports suggest the attacks left 20-36 civilians killed. An unspecified number of people may also have been kidnapped. Lodjo is located about 100 km north of the provincial capital, Bunia.
Despite ongoing military operations in the region, further similar attacks against civilians, rival militias, and security forces are likely across the province in the near term.
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 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.
