At least 38 people were killed in a brutal attack on a church in eastern Congo, according to city officials. The assault took place in Komanda, located in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the early hours of Sunday, with reports suggesting that the perpetrators were members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an armed group linked to the Islamic State.
Details of the Attack
Witnesses and local officials reported that the attack occurred during a night mass when worshippers were gathered inside the church. Jean Kato, an official in the city administration, confirmed that the assailants were armed with guns and machetes, launching a violent assault on those present. In addition to the fatalities, 15 individuals sustained injuries, and several others remain unaccounted for.
Human rights activist Christophe Munyanderu, who was at the scene, recounted the chaos that unfolded. Initially, many residents mistook the gunfire for the sounds of thieves. Munyanderu stated, “The rebels mainly attacked Christians who were spending the night in the Catholic church. Unfortunately, these people were killed with machetes or bullets.”
International Response
The attack has drawn condemnation from various quarters, including the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC. The UN has expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violence in the region, highlighting the urgent need for targeted efforts to address the security crisis.
As the situation continues to develop, local authorities and humanitarian organizations are working to account for the missing individuals and provide support to the victims’ families. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced in eastern Congo, where violence and instability remain pervasive.
Authorities are urging the international community to take notice of the dire security situation and assist in efforts to restore peace and safety in the region. The DRC has been grappling with armed conflict for decades, and attacks like this one further complicate the humanitarian landscape.
As investigations continue, the people of Komanda and surrounding areas are left to mourn the tragic loss of life and confront the fear of continued violence.
