Armed Attack on National Route 4 Leaves Seven Injured

Kisangani, April 18, 2026 - Seven people were injured in an armed attack on a passenger bus along National Route 4, about 54 kilometers from Kisangani, in the Bakumu-Mandombe sector. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon when a vehicle belonging to a transport agency en route to Butembo was ambushed by armed men reportedly wearing military uniforms. According to eyewitnesses, the assailants opened fire, wounding several passengers. Five of the injured were transported back to Kisangani for medical treatment due to the severity of their condition, while two others continued their journey toward Bafwasende. Passengers reported that a soldier aboard the bus responded to the attack, leading to an exchange of gunfire that lasted several minutes. During the incident, the driver was forced off the road and taken toward a nearby forest before later managing to return, reportedly after the attackers withdrew. Despite the violence, no property was reported stolen. Witnesses also noted that military reinforcements arrived at the scene after the attack had ended. In a separate development, three young men were arrested at a checkpoint on the Ituri road several hours after the incident. Authorities said the suspects raised suspicion due to their appearance and were found in possession of a mobile phone they were unable to unlock. They were taken into custody in Kisangani as investigations continue.