DRC: Rebel attack in Oicha on October 24-25 /update 2

Event

According to military sources, suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels carried out an attack in the Bukahiku district's town of Oicha (North Kivu province) overnight October 24-25. Subsequent clashes between rebel and security forces lasted at least three hours. At least three people were killed, numerous people are missing, several houses were burned down, and shops were looted. The attack prompted residents to flee to nearby areas. Additional attacks and related protests cannot be ruled out in the near term.

Context 

Several other suspected ADF attacks have taken place recently in Oicha, as well as in the nearby town of Beni. Numerous related protests were held in both towns to denounce increasing insecurity in the area.

The ADF is a Ugandan Islamist militant group that has been active in North Kivu province since the late 1990s. Notably, the group is suspected of having carried out an attack on UN peacekeepers in Beni territory (North Kivu province) in December 2017, killing at least 15 peacekeepers and wounding some 53 others. In general, the Congolese government's limited presence in the eastern provinces, including North Kivu, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias), has led to continued insecurity in the area.

Advice

Individuals in North Kivu province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, avoid the above area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.