ADF militants kill dozens in eastern DR Congo village attacks

Islamic State-linked militants, identified as members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), carried out overnight attacks on several villages in the North Kivu province of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Local civil society leaders reported varying death tolls, with one source stating at least 24 civilians were killed and another reporting at least 33 bodies were found. The attackers reportedly burned and looted numerous homes and businesses while fleeing toward the forest.

The violence in the Cantine area has caused significant displacement. Medical officials noted that the attacks occurred near a local hospital, forcing approximately 180 patients, including suspected Ebola cases, to flee. This displacement occurs amid an ongoing Ebola outbreak in the region.

Ugandan and Congolese forces have been conducting joint operations against the ADF since 2021. The group is affiliated with ISIS and remains one of the most active and dangerous armed groups in the country's eastern territories.