Escalating violence grips north kivu, humanitarian workers targeted in eastern drc

The security landscape in Rutshuru territory, North Kivu, has deteriorated significantly, marked by a surge in violent incidents. Over a two-day period, between Tuesday and Wednesday, June 24, at least ten individuals were abducted, two lives were tragically lost, and numerous properties were plundered. This alarming trend has prompted urgent appeals from local humanitarian organizations for immediate security restoration across this volatile region of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

These recent occurrences, documented across at least six localities, encompass a range of criminal acts including kidnappings, armed ambushes on key roadways, forceful entries into private residences, and direct confrontations between various armed factions. The escalating crisis underscores the persistent threats faced by communities in this part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

On Wednesday morning, specifically between 9 and 10 o’clock, a harrowing series of abductions unfolded. Seven people were seized along the Kibirizi-Rwindi axis near Butindiri, and also on the Kibirizi-Kibingu route. Among those targeted were three moto-taxi drivers and their passengers. The perpetrators also looted approximately 18 packages of fish, which were being transported from Vitshumbi. The identities of those responsible for these kidnappings remain unknown at this time.

The preceding day, Tuesday, saw three more individuals fall victim to kidnapping. Two of these abductions occurred during an armed home invasion in the Buzito district of Kiwanja, while the third person was taken from the Majengo district in Kibirizi.

Also on Tuesday, a cargo truck carrying goods for local traders was ambushed on the Kanyabayonga-Rwindi road. Armed assailants opened fire to compel the driver to stop the vehicle before making off with its entire cargo. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in this particular attack.

Tragedy struck on the same day in Kiseguro village, where a 22-year-old woman and her child lost their lives. Local reports indicate they were fatally hit by stray bullets during clashes between rebels from the AFC-M23 and combatants affiliated with the FDLR.

Separately, the Red Cross of the Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed the deaths of two of its dedicated volunteers. The tragic incident occurred on June 16 in Walungu territory, South Kivu. The volunteers were engaged in a vital mission overseeing potable water supply projects in Kakumba village when they were brutally attacked.

Edgard Mateso, the national president of the Red Cross in the Democratic Republic of Congo, issued a strong condemnation of this heinous attack. He described it as a grave violation of international humanitarian principles, emphasizing that such a devastating event highlights the continuous and severe risks that humanitarian aid workers confront daily across the eastern regions of the country.