BENI, Democratic Republic of Congo — 11 May 2026 —
At least 69 people were killed in a series of overnight attacks on villages in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to local officials and civil society groups, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the region this year.
Authorities in Beni territory said the assaults occurred late Sunday and early Monday in several remote communities of North Kivu province, an area long affected by violence linked to armed groups operating in the region. Early reports indicate that the assailants targeted civilians using small arms and bladed weapons, leaving many victims in their homes.
Local administrator Col. Charles Ehuta Omeanga told reporters that preliminary investigations indicate fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) — an armed group active in eastern Congo and parts of Uganda — are likely the perpetrators. The ADF, which has been responsible for numerous deadly attacks over the past decade, has been designated a violent extremist organisation by multiple governments and is responsible for severe harm and human rights abuses.
Survivors described chaotic scenes as residents fled into nearby forests to escape the attackers. “People were taken by surprise. Many families were still asleep,” said a representative of a regional civil society network, who asked not to be named for security reasons.
The Congolese army said it has deployed additional troops to the affected areas and launched pursuit operations. However, poor road access and ongoing insecurity continue to hinder emergency response efforts.
Humanitarian organisations working in North Kivu warned that the death toll could rise as more bodies are recovered. The region has faced repeated waves of violence despite ongoing military operations and international support aimed at stabilising the area.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DRC, MONUSCO, condemned the killings and urged authorities to strengthen protection for civilians. The mission has been gradually reducing its presence in the country, raising concerns among local communities about deteriorating security conditions.
Eastern Congo has endured decades of conflict involving dozens of armed groups competing for territory, resources, and influence. The latest attack underscores the persistent vulnerability of rural populations and the challenges facing efforts to restore stability.