Deadly Attacks by ADF Militants in Nord-Kivu: Over 50 Civilians Killed in Bapere and Baswagha – Civil Society
In a devastating series of events in the Nord-Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, over fifty civilians lost their lives due to attacks by Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants in the villages of Bapere and Baswagha. These brutal killings occurred in the territories of Lubero, specifically in the groupings of Babika and Baredje in Bapere, as well as in Manzia and Mwenye in Baswagha, where ADF insurgents were present.
Details of the Attacks
According to Samuel Kagheni, the president of the Bapere civil society, the ADF militants carried out these horrific acts, resulting in the deaths of more than 50 innocent civilians. Villages such as Kodjo, Robinet, Makele, Kili, Bilentu, Mangoya, Kaheku, Byambwe, Vuthatha, and Mambume were among those affected by the violence. The attacks spanned from the night of December 22nd to December 31st, causing fear and devastation among the local population.
The ADF insurgents not only took lives but also set fire to homes, forcing many residents to flee to safer areas such as Manguredjipa and Nziapanda, where the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) were stationed. The most vulnerable groups, including children, women, and the elderly, bore the brunt of the violence, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Response and Concerns
Samuel Kagheni emphasized the urgent need for the military to take decisive action against the assailants to reclaim the occupied territories and restore peace to the region. The ADF militants, believed to have originated from the Bandulu region, have been moving covertly towards Beni, evading detection by splitting into smaller groups to navigate around military checkpoints.
Colonel Mak Hazukay, the army spokesperson, reassured the public of the security forces’ commitment to addressing the situation and urged community cooperation in identifying and neutralizing the enemy. Reports from local farmers near Cantine in Beni indicated suspicious movements by the ADF militants, raising concerns about further attacks in the region.
Looking Ahead
As the communities in Nord-Kivu grapple with the aftermath of these brutal attacks, the need for a swift and coordinated response to protect civilians and restore security is paramount. The international community, humanitarian organizations, and local authorities must work together to prevent future tragedies and support the affected populations as they rebuild their lives amidst uncertainty and fear.
Through solidarity and collective action, we can honor the memory of the innocent lives lost and stand united against the forces of violence and terror threatening the peace and stability of the region. It is a challenging road ahead, but with perseverance and determination, hope can prevail over despair in the face of adversity. Let us remember the victims, support the survivors, and strive for a future where such senseless violence has no place in our world.