Army reinforces Okapi Wildlife Reserve after ADF drone activity

Mambasa, March 25, 2026 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have deployed reinforcements to the Okapi Wildlife Reserve following reported drone activity attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) over key positions in the area. According to sources within the reserve, drones flew over the headquarters and several patrol posts on March 18 and 19, raising alarm among rangers. The overflights come amid growing concerns about the presence of ADF fighters, who are believed to have infiltrated parts of the reserve. The situation escalated in recent weeks after earlier incidents in nearby villages, including Babesua, where armed elements reportedly forced rangers to abandon their positions before setting fire to parts of the locality. No casualties were reported in that incident, but it highlighted the increasing reach of the group. In response, FARDC units were deployed from Bunia to reinforce ranger positions and secure the reserve. While the arrival of troops has been welcomed, local sources indicate that the current deployment may not be sufficient given the scale of the threat. Several surrounding villages, including Muchacha and Babesua, remain deserted as residents continue to flee insecurity. Some patrol activities within the reserve have also been suspended due to safety concerns. The renewed threat recalls past attacks in the reserve, notably the 2011 incident in which armed elements killed several okapis, an endangered species unique to the region. Conservation efforts have since been ongoing, but continued insecurity poses a serious risk to both wildlife protection and civilian safety in the area.