Islamic State-Linked ADF Fighters Launch Deadly Attack on Muchacha Mining Site

Mambasa, Ituri March 15, 2026 - A deadly attack struck the Muchacha and Mavuvu mining sites on the night of March 11-12, carried out by Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) fighters linked to the Islamic State. The assault targeted operations run by the Chinese company Kimia Mining, leaving equipment destroyed and multiple casualties in its wake. Images released by the Islamic State show trucks, tractors, and camps set ablaze, highlighting the scale of the destruction. More than a dozen people were killed, and around 100 civilians were taken hostage during the attack. The ADF also ambushed a Congolese army unit that arrived to intervene, resulting in the death of an officer and several soldiers. The fighters involved are believed to belong to the Batike and Bapaitumba groups, two factions that have operated in the Bapere sector of North Kivu for over a year. Following previous clashes in Budhudea, the ADF relocated to new positions in Botambisi, Mapendano, and Mabuo, maintaining control over gold mining sites where they collect taxes and coordinate attacks. Officials note that the ADF’s movement toward Muchacha was part of a search for new hideouts, evading Congolese and Ugandan military operations supported by Wazalendo trackers. The fighters crossed the Lenda River, entering Ituri territory, where they executed the coordinated assault. Since June 2024, Bapere has hosted multiple ADF factions, including the group led by Abwakasi, notorious for its brutal and lethal operations. Analysts warn that the Muchacha region is strategically significant, forming part of the Kivu-Kinshasa Green Corridor, a critical route supplying Kisangani and Kinshasa with essential agricultural products, raising concerns about the ongoing threat to the region.