Deadly Assault on Churchgoers in DR Congo Linked to Islamic State

The death toll from a horrific attack on churchgoers in the Democratic Republic of Congo has risen, as members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamic State affiliate, assault worshippers during a night vigil. Reports of looting and further violence have emerged, raising concerns over the ongoing instability in the region.

Dozens were killed in a horrific assault by an Islamic State affiliate in north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, local officials reported. The attack occurred during a night vigil at a church in the town of Komanda, where approximately 20 of the deceased were worshippers. Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) fighters were responsible for the violence, which saw nearby shops and businesses looted and set ablaze.

The ADF, which originated in Uganda during the 1990s citing persecution of Muslims, has since established itself in DR Congo where it routinely targets civilians regardless of their faith, and it has become associated with the Islamic State’s Central African Province, which also encompasses groups in Mozambique. Research indicates that nearly 90% of Islamic State operations currently occur through its affiliates across Africa.

Civil society coordinator Dieudonne Duranthabo stated that the death toll might rise as searches continue for additional victims. "More than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside the church. We have also recorded at least three charred bodies and multiple houses burned," he informed Associated Press.

Local priest Father Aime Lokana Dhego reported at least 31 fatalities among members of the Eucharistic Crusade movement, with six individuals critically injured. He mentioned the kidnapping of local youths, of whom there is currently no news. Reports from UN-sponsored Radio Okapi suggested as many as 43 individuals may have perished in the attack, while an army spokesperson verified only 10 deaths.

In response to ongoing ADF violence, the Congolese government invited Ugandan troops to assist in counter-terrorism efforts in 2021; however, assaults have persisted. The violent incident took place in Ituri province, known for its mineral wealth and plagued by various armed group conflicts for years.