Local Farmers Killed by Deadly ADF Rebels in DR Congo
The Sunday attack was the second in less than two weeks in the Bapakombe-Bakondo area of the country.
Three farmers were on Sunday, Jan. 12, killed by Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in the Beni region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The assailants took the farmers by surprise, killing them in cold blood; they also kidnapped some of the locals, razing down a number of houses before withdrawing from the locality.
Mwami Atsu-Taibo, the village head of Bapakombe-Bakondo, where the civilian farmers were killed, expressed deep worries over the recurring attacks by the rebels, urging the locals to support the DR Congo army in fighting the terrorists.
“The only thing we ask for is the reinforcement of military operations in the Mayangose zone, which is the bread basket of the area. For now, since operations are ongoing, the farmers can be for two or three days without gaining access to their farms while waiting for instructions from us,” Mwami revealed.
The Sunday attack was the second in less than two weeks in the Bapakombe-Bakondo area of the country. On December 31, 2024, the same assailants attacked a military position in Mikua but were promptly pushed back by the FARDC.
“We call on the government, through ‘Operation Shujaa’ in collaboration with the Ugandan Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF), to intensify the efforts of securing the region. This region is strategic because it supplies a large part of foodstuff for the local population. Mayangose is the economic and agricultural live wire of Beni. It is imperative to protect this zone and to ensure that inhabitants are vigilant,” Mwami added.
“Operation Shujaa”, a military joint task force by the DR Congo army and the Ugandan armed forces (UPDF), was said to have recorded little success in combating the rebels.
Relaunched in May 2024 after what was described as poor beginnings, the operation aims at weakening the ADF. Despite some success, including the killing of several ADF commanders and the freeing of certain hostages, experts have noted the disquieting increase in killings, abductions and looting, as well as targeted attacks against medical personnel.
These disturbing events exacerbate the pressure on the civilian populations of the Ituri provinces and North Kivu. Experts have also called for better coordination between the DR Congo army and the UPDF and the protection of populations in the zones affected by the conflict.
Three farmers were killed by ADF rebels on Jan. 12 in the Beni region of DR Congo, who also caused destruction and kidnappings. Village head Mwami Atsu-Taibo called for military support in the Mayangose zone, crucial for local agriculture, and emphasized the need for collaboration with the DR Congo army to combat insurgents.
Recent attacks have highlighted the strategic significance of the region, which provides essential food supplies. Despite efforts by "Operation Shujaa," a joint task force with Uganda's army, progress has been limited, with ongoing violence against civilians and medical personnel. Experts stress improved coordination between the DR Congo army and the UPDF for the protection of affected populations.
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