Deadly Church Attack in DR Congo Connected to Islamic State Affiliate

The Islamic State affiliate, Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), has carried out a deadly assault during a church vigil in the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in numerous casualties and looting. The attack underscores ongoing violence in the region, highlighting the peril posed by extremist groups.

Dozens of lives have been tragically lost in a brutal attack by the Islamic State-linked group, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), during a church night vigil in the town of Komanda, situated in north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Local officials have reported that approximately 20 of the victims were worshippers participating in the vigil when they were targeted by armed ADF fighters. Additionally, numerous businesses in the area were subjected to looting and arson during the chaos.

The ADF originally emerged in Uganda during the 1990s, claiming to defend Muslim rights, but has since relocated to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The group regularly perpetrates violence against civilians of varying religious backgrounds, not only within Congo but also in neighboring Uganda. This faction is now classified as part of the Islamic State's Central African Province, which encompasses a similar group operating in Mozambique. According to BBC Monitoring, nearly 90% of the operations carried out by the Islamic State occur through its African affiliates.

Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society coordinator from Komanda, expressed fears that more bodies may be uncovered following this devastating incident. Initial reports specify that at least 21 individuals were shot both inside and outside the church, in addition to three charred remains and several torched homes. A local priest, Father Aime Lokana Dhego, provided further context, stating that they had identified at least 31 victims from the Eucharistic Crusade movement and noted the severe injuries of six others. Reports also included instances of young individuals being abducted, leaving their families in distress regarding their whereabouts.

The UN’s Radio Okapi reported a higher death toll of 43 victims, while military spokespersons confirmed at least ten fatalities so far. This attack comes despite previous measures taken by the Democratic Republic of Congo, including an invitation to Ugandan military forces in 2021 to assist in combating the ADF, with attacks persisting in the region nonetheless. The town of Komanda lies within Ituri province, an area historically rife with conflict as various armed groups vie for control, particularly given its rich mineral resources.