FARDC Seize Arms Cache, 14 Militants Surrender After ADF Attack

Ituri, April 5, 2026 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have discovered a third arms cache linked to the CRP-Zaire coalition and secured the surrender of fourteen of its members in Ituri province, following a deadly attack by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Mambasa territory. The developments were outlined during the April 3 meeting of the Council of Ministers, where Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense and Veterans Affairs Guy Kabombo briefed the government on the evolving security situation in the eastern provinces. According to the briefing, the ADF attack in Mambasa left more than 40 people dead and caused extensive material damage. The army has since intensified operations to contain the violence and prevent further displacement of civilians. In Djugu territory, FARDC units uncovered an additional weapons cache attributed to the CRP-Zaire coalition. The surrender of fourteen fighters was described by authorities as a positive outcome of ongoing military pressure. Security forces are continuing operations to track down remaining elements accused of attacks against civilians and ambushes. In North Kivu’s Walikale territory, the army is also implementing commitments related to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), as part of broader efforts to stabilize the region. Beyond Ituri, military operations are ongoing in other parts of the country. In Haut-Katanga province, the FARDC Chief of Staff has launched actions aimed at neutralizing insurgent groups. Authorities also reported continued operations against Mobondo militia elements in areas surrounding Kinshasa and in Maï-Ndombe province. The latest developments highlight the persistent instability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions with neighboring Rwanda and address the conflict involving the AFC/M23 rebellion. The ADF, originally from Uganda and now affiliated with the Islamic State, remains one of the deadliest armed groups in the region, continuing to carry out attacks against civilians across the DRC-Uganda border despite joint military operations.