Fresh violence linked to suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) fighters has left at least two civilians dead and several others injured in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, renewing fears over persistent insecurity in North Kivu Province.
The incident occurred on Thursday evening in Manguredjipa town, located in Lubero territory, as residents gathered to welcome the New Year. According to local sources, armed attackers entered the Katanga neighbourhood shortly after nightfall and began targeting civilians, forcing many families to flee in fear.
Local leaders said the attack caused confusion and panic, with people running for safety as gunfire rang out. Emergency response teams and security forces were later deployed to the area as wounded victims were taken for medical treatment.
A local administrative source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, confirmed that at least two people had been killed by Friday morning. Several others were reported to be in critical condition, and authorities warned that the number of victims could rise as search operations continue.
By the time of publication, the Congolese military had not issued an official comment on the attack.
The ADF, an armed group with roots in Uganda, has been active in eastern Congo for years and is responsible for numerous deadly assaults, particularly in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The group has publicly aligned itself with the Islamic State, which has claimed responsibility for some attacks, although independent verification remains difficult.
Despite ongoing joint military efforts by Congolese and Ugandan forces to weaken the group, communities in Lubero territory continue to experience regular attacks. Residents say violence often occurs at night or during public gatherings, leaving civilians feeling exposed and unsafe.
The latest attack highlights the ongoing challenge faced by authorities in restoring lasting security in eastern Congo, where armed groups continue to threaten civilian life despite sustained military operations.
