DRC: At least 15 killed in clashes in North Kivu July 13-17

Event

According to local officials, clashes between Maï-Maï self-defense militias and armed groups took place in the Bashali-Mokonto area of North Kivu province (east) between Friday, July 13, and Tuesday, July 17.  At least 15 people were killed and several injured in the clashes, which were concentrated in the Kahira and Kamiro localities. The army secured control of the area on July 18; however, further such clashes are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Numerous armed groups are active across the DRC, including ethnic self-defense militias. Violent clashes between these groups and government forces, as well as between rival groups, are common. The government's limited presence in the DRC's eastern provinces, as well as the presence of numerous armed actors and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias), have driven continued insecurity in the area.

Advice

A number of Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the east and northeast of the country due to poor security conditions, including the presence of armed groups and a high risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice should be sought prior to travel.