Ituri: FARDC Seizes Weapons Cache from CRP Militia in Djugu

Djugu, Ituri, DRC - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition from the Convention for the Popular Revolution (CRP) militia, led by Thomas Lubanga, in Djugu on Wednesday, October 29.

The seized arsenal included eight AK-47 assault rifles, two AK-56 rifles, an Uzi submachine gun, and assorted ammunition, reportedly hidden by the militia following its defeat in military operations last Sunday.

Army spokesperson Lieutenant Jules Ngongo stated that the operations are part of ongoing efforts to pacify the region and restore state authority. Military Governor Lieutenant General Johnny Luboya N’kashama praised the FARDC for their professionalism and reiterated that operations will continue to eliminate all forms of violence in this part of Ituri.

Overall Conclusion: DRC Report, October 20-31, 2025

The period between October 20 and 31, 2025, for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was characterized by a delicate balance between intensified diplomatic and economic engagement and persistent, severe security and humanitarian crises, particularly in the eastern provinces.

On the political and diplomatic fronts, the DRC made notable strides in regional and international relations:

DRC-Rwanda Peace: The United States welcomed significant progress in implementing the peace agreement, following the third session of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM) in Washington, which focused on neutralizing the FDLR and lifting Rwanda’s defensive measures.

National Assembly Leadership: The ruling Sacred Union, under President Félix Tshisekedi's authority, designated Aimé Boji Sangara as its sole candidate for the National Assembly presidency, aiming to consolidate political unity.

International Diplomacy: President Tshisekedi engaged in high-level diplomacy in Paris, urging global action to end the "protracted tragedy" in the Great Lakes region and securing a €1.5 billion pledge for peace and humanitarian aid. He also strengthened bilateral cooperation with Egypt in military, economic, and diplomatic sectors.

Efforts were focused on internal economic reform and external trade:

Currency and Prices: The government held a meeting to assess the appreciation of the Congolese franc (CDF), aiming to translate currency gains into lower market prices and launching a national campaign to combat price speculation.

Oil Sector Reform: The DRC and the IMF reached an agreement to resolve revenue shortfalls in the oil sector as part of a broader reform program to enhance budget transparency.

Regional Economic Ties: The 3rd DRC-Angola Economic Forum was scheduled for February 2026 to boost bilateral trade and cooperation. The construction of a 600-meter bridge linking Zongo to Bangui (CAR) was highlighted as a key infrastructure project for regional integration.

Despite diplomatic efforts, the security situation remains highly volatile, driving a catastrophic humanitarian crisis:

Escalating Violence: Intense clashes between the FARDC/Wazalendo and the AFC/M23 rebels were reported in North Kivu (Masisi, Walikale) and South Kivu (Nyangezi), prompting mass displacement and the U.S. to warn against ceasefire violations. The DRC government and the AFC/M23 continued to trade accusations over truce breaches.

ADF Attacks: Attacks attributed to the ADF rebels continued in Ituri (Kamagolo) and North Kivu (Lubero), resulting in civilian deaths, abductions, and mass displacement.

Humanitarian Scale: UN Secretary-General Guterres described the situation as one of the most severe globally, noting over 21 million people require assistance, 5.7 million are displaced, and 32,000 children remain in armed groups.

Health Crises: The country faced one of its worst cholera epidemics in a decade, with over 1,700 deaths and 58,000 suspected cases recorded since January 2025. The Prime Minister also declared the fight against female cancers a "national imperative".

In summary, the end of October 2025 demonstrated the DRC's determined push for a political solution to its conflicts and economic stability, notably through the JSCM and currency management. However, these positive steps are continuously undermined by rampant insecurity, inter-militia clashes, and the resulting, massive humanitarian and public health emergencies in the east.