Continued Violence in Eastern Congo Claims Lives

At least 13 individuals have lost their lives and several others have been kidnapped in eastern Congo due to the actions of extremist rebels affiliated with the Islamic State group, local officials reported on Saturday.
The attack was carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Mabisio village, located in North Kivu province. Col. Alain Kiwewa, the local administrator, provided details during a segment on state television.
Among those killed in the late Friday attack were women, and reports indicated that houses in the village were subjected to arson and looting during the raid.
For decades, eastern Congo has been plagued by armed conflict, with over 120 groups engaged in battles for power, land, and lucrative mineral resources. Many others are attempting to protect their communities against the violence. Various armed factions have been implicated in mass killings over the years.
In recent times, the frequency and intensity of ADF attacks have escalated, now targeting areas closer to Goma, which is the primary city in eastern Congo, as well as the nearby Ituri province.
Human rights organizations and the United Nations have reported that the ADF has been responsible for the deaths of hundreds and the abduction of many others, notably including a considerable number of children.
Earlier in August, the ADF was involved in an incident that resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people across multiple villages in North Kivu.