DRC: Fatalities reported following explosion reported in church in Kasindi, North Kivu Province, Jan. 15

Event

A bomb explosion reportedly occurred in Kasindi, DRC on Jan. 15 near the Ugandan border. The target was a local church. Authorities suspect the attack to have been carried out by Islamist militants, and have stated that they have secured the area and the injured have been evacuated. Fatalities have been reported though their number at time of writing is unclear.

Increased security and localized disruptions from emergency services' intervention are likely in the vicinity of the explosion over the coming hours. A heightened security posture is also likely.

Context

The incident is notable as bomb attacks targeting churches are not commonly reported in the DRC. However, multiple armed groups operate in eastern DRC, notably the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamist militant group. The ADF operates primarily in North Kivu and Ituri provinces and has been implicated in dozens of attacks in the region in 2021 and 2022.

More generally, the incident highlights the persistent and elevated threat of militant violence in eastern regions of the DRC. Militant groups such as the ADF typically target military personnel, ammunition depots, political parties, and private citizens, and ambush passenger and private vehicles on major roads. In some instances, hand grenades, mines, and other explosive devices have been reconfigured into improvised explosive devices in combat areas. The threat of incidental violence to foreign travelers in the affected areas is high.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the blast until authorities have secured the area and given the all-clear. Plan for an increased security presence especially near the border with Uganda . Allow extra time for travel. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel.