In a tragic incident, Islamic State-backed rebels killed 38 people during an attack on a church in Komanda, located in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, on March 3, 2024. The assault, reportedly executed by the Allied Democratic Forces, involved both firearms and machetes, according to local officials.
City officials stated that the attack occurred while a night mass was being held. Jean Kato, an official in the city administration, confirmed the death toll and noted that 15 individuals were injured and several others are still unaccounted for. The chaos unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning, as worshippers were gathered for the religious service.
Details of the Attack
Christophe Munyanderu, a human rights activist who witnessed the aftermath, described the harrowing scene. “Shots were heard overnight, but initially, people thought it was just thieves,” he reported. Munyanderu emphasized that the rebels specifically targeted Christians attending the mass. “Unfortunately, these people were killed with machetes or bullets,” he lamented.
The attack underscores a worrying trend of escalating violence in the region. The United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has condemned this resurgence of hostilities and called for immediate action to protect civilians. The situation reflects ongoing instability in northeastern Congo, where various armed groups have operated for years, causing significant humanitarian crises.
Witness accounts and local reports continue to emerge, painting a grim picture of the impact of such violence on communities already struggling with insecurity. The attack in Komanda has shocked many, raising concerns about the safety of religious gatherings in the area.
As investigations proceed, local authorities are under pressure to enhance security measures to prevent further assaults. The international community is also being urged to respond to the escalating violence and provide necessary support to affected populations.
