ADF Attack on Mambasa-Kisangani Axis Leaves 43 Dead, Dozens of Homes Destroyed

Bafwakoa, Mambasa Territory, Ituri Province April 2, 2026 - At least 43 civilians were killed and extensive material destruction recorded on Thursday, April 2, following a deadly attack attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Bafwakoa, a village located about 148 kilometers from Mambasa along the Kisangani road in Ituri Province in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The attack occurred in the evening when armed assailants stormed the village, opening fire on civilians and setting fire to homes and vehicles. Local reports indicate that 44 houses were burned, along with several motorcycles and a truck, leaving significant material losses in the community. The assault took place in a region currently under a state of siege, where military authorities are deployed to restore security amid persistent attacks by armed groups operating in the area. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed the toll, stating that 43 people were killed and multiple properties destroyed, describing the attack as a serious violation of human rights carried out by ADF elements against civilians. He added that security forces are intensifying operations aimed at dismantling ADF networks and restoring stability in the region. Authorities have urged the population to cooperate with security services and report any suspicious activity, while reaffirming ongoing military efforts to neutralize armed groups responsible for repeated atrocities. The attack has once again raised concerns over the effectiveness of security measures in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where civilians continue to suffer repeated massacres despite ongoing joint operations by Congolese forces and regional partners. The ADF, active mainly in forested areas across North Kivu and Ituri, continues to carry out deadly attacks along the Beni, Lubero, Irumu, and Mambasa axes, despite years of military operations aimed at ending its insurgency.