DRC: Militant attack leaves ten dead near Beni (North Kivu province) November 19

Event

At least ten civilians were killed by suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants on the evening (local time) on Tuesday, November 19, near the town of Beni (North Kivu province). According to civilian and security sources, the militants carried out two coordinated attacks. Firefights with Congolese soldiers reportedly lasted for hours while civilians had to shelter in Beni's city center. Further details are still emerging as of Wednesday, November 20.

A heightened security presence is expected in the area. Similar militant attacks are to be expected in North Kivu province over the near term.

Context

According to local civil society activists, more than 54 people have been killed in almost daily attacks suspected to have been carried out by ADF militants in North Kivu since early November, when security operations began to combat ADF fighters. The ADF is a Ugandan Islamist militant group that has been active in North Kivu province since the late 1990s. There has been local and international speculation regarding potential links between ADF rebels and Islamic State (IS) militants.

Advice

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