40 killed in church attack in Democratic Republic of Congo

July 28, 2025 / 12:08 AM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: About 40 people were killed in a brutal attack on a Catholic church in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to informed sources. The assault, which also left six people seriously injured, was carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a group with origins as Ugandan rebels.

Attack follows months of relative calm

The overnight attack took place from Saturday to Sunday in the town of Komanda, Ituri province, marking a deadly escalation after a period of relative calm in the region. Local officials reported that the attackers stormed the church, killing at least 35 worshippers and injuring several others.

Additional casualties and abductions reported

Authorities confirmed that seven more bodies were later discovered in the town. In addition to the casualties, several young men were abducted by the assailants, raising further concern over the ongoing threat posed by the ADF in the region.

ADF’s violent history

The Allied Democratic Forces, originally formed in Uganda, have been responsible for numerous attacks in eastern Congo over the years and are considered one of the region’s most violent armed groups. The latest assault underscores the fragile security situation in Ituri and surrounding areas.