At least 24 civilians were killed overnight in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo when fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) attacked several villages in Beni territory, local civil society sources said on Friday. The attackers struck under cover of darkness, setting homes and businesses on fire before retreating into nearby forests, while frightened residents fled their communities to seek safety elsewhere.
FAKTA
- Location: Several villages in Beni territory, North Kivu province, eastern DR Congo
- Death toll: At least 24 civilians, according to local civil society sources; the figure is provisional and other reports put it lower
- When: Overnight from Thursday into Friday, 5–6 November 2026
- Attackers: Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group with links to the Islamic State
- Response: Residents fled their homes; the UN peacekeeping chief in Congo met provincial leaders on Thursday to discuss civilian protection
Simultaneous raids across villages
Civil society leader Jean Katuho confirmed the provisional death toll on Friday, saying the rebels launched simultaneous assaults on several villages in the area. Local media reported that families abandoned their homes as the attacks spread, seeking safety in nearby locations. The attackers also burned several houses and businesses as they withdrew toward the forests, leaving behind damaged property and displaced families.
The attack took place in Cantine-Aloya and surrounding villages, according to local reports. The death toll remains provisional, with some outlets reporting at least 10 killed while others put the figure above 20, and the number could change as more information emerges from the remote area.
UN mission under pressure
Earlier on Thursday, James Swan, head of the UN peacekeeping mission in Congo (MONUSCO), met leaders of North Kivu province to discuss the security situation and efforts to restore peace across the troubled region. Swan reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to supporting the Congolese authorities, saying the protection of civilians remained its main priority.
He also stressed the need for regular patrols, a stronger presence on the ground and quick responses when communities come under threat. The meeting came as fresh violence underlined how difficult that task remains in a province where armed groups continue to operate close to civilian settlements.
A long-running threat
Congolese and Ugandan forces have conducted joint military operations against the ADF since 2021, but the group remains active across the east of the country. The ADF, which originated in Uganda, has operated in eastern Congo for years and maintains links with the Islamic State through its Central Africa affiliate.
According to a report by UN experts published in July, the group killed more than 1,000 civilians in Congo during 2025 alone. The latest attack adds to growing concern over repeated violence against civilians and the protection of local communities in a region that has endured years of armed conflict and displacement.
