UN Condemns Deadly Attack on Worshippers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Strategic Insights -

At least 49 civilians, including nine children, were killed in a brutal attack by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) on civilians in Komanda town, Irumu territory, Ituri province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The attack, which occurred on the night of 26 to 27 July, also resulted in several people being injured and abducted, and shops and homes being set on fire. The victims were mostly worshippers killed with bladed weapons during a night vigil at a church.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamic State-affiliated insurgent group, carried out the attack in Komanda town, Irumu territory, Ituri province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
  • At least 49 civilians were killed, including nine children, and several others were injured and abducted.
  • The attack was part of a series of attacks by the ADF earlier in the month, which killed 82 civilians in Ituri and North Kivu provinces.
  • The UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, MONUSCO, condemned the attack and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
  • The ADF has committed grave human rights violations against civilians since its founding in 1995 and has been under UN sanctions since June 2014.
  • MONUSCO is supporting local authorities in their response by organising burials and providing medical care to the wounded.
  • The peacekeeping mission is also intensifying security efforts in and around the city of Komanda.
  • MONUSCO is committed to working with Congolese authorities and communities "to help prevent future attacks, protect civilians, reduce tensions, and contribute to the stabilization of areas affected by armed violence."

Statistics:

  • 49 civilians were killed in the attack.
  • 9 children were among the killed civilians.
  • Several people were injured and abducted.
  • At least 82 civilians were killed in ADF attacks earlier in the month.
  • The ADF has been under UN sanctions since June 2014.
  • 1995 is the year the ADF was founded.
  • The attack occurred on the night of 26 to 27 July.

Sources:

  • United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO)
  • UN News
  • M2 PressWIRE - July 29, 2025: "United Nations (UN) condemns deadly attack on worshippers in Democratic Republic of the Congo"