Islamic State-linked rebels kill 22 in eastern Congo border attacks

Islamic State-linked ADF militants attacked eight communities in eastern Congo, killing at least 22 people and abducting 10. The violence could undermine security operations and efforts to contain Ituri's Ebola outbreak.Stock photo used for illustrationIturi,Nov 11, 2026 23:58 ISTAt least 22 people were killed and 10 others abducted after a rebel group affiliated with the Islamic State launched attacks on remote communities near Congo's border with Uganda over two days, civil society groups said on Wednesday.The Allied Democratic Forces carried out the attacks across eight locations in Mambasa territory in the eastern Ituri province. Local authorities said the military was working to curb the group's activities, while the violence also threatened efforts to contain an Ebola outbreak in the province.Marie-Noelle Anatobe, coordinator of the Civil Society of Congo in Mambasa territory, said the number of casualties could rise. "The death toll remains provisional. In addition to the 22 civilians killed, the perpetrators abducted other individuals, and motorcycles and homes were set on fire," she said.The attacks took place in areas that are difficult to access near the border. Col Maxime Tshishimbi, the deputy administrator of Mambasa, said efforts were under way to tackle the group. "Despite the challenges, constant efforts and actions are being taken to find a solution," he told The Associated Press.The attacks could hinder efforts to contain the deadly Ebola outbreak in Ituri, the centre of the deadliest such outbreak in Congo's history. The outbreak has infected more than 11,000 people and killed over 5,000 so far. The Allied Democratic Forces originated in Uganda before being pushed towards the border with Congo, where it has operated for years and targeted civilians. It pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group in 2019.The Ugandan and Congolese armies have jointly carried out operations against the group but have struggled to make progress. Residents often say the military is absent when attacks take place.Last year, the group killed dozens of people in Irumu territory in Ituri province in attacks that the United Nations described as a "bloodbath"."This morning, we were left only to count the dead. It is truly deplorable," said Rams Malikidogo, a coordinator of the Association for the Protection and Defense of Vulnerable Children and Women in Mambasa territory.The latest violence left at least 22 people dead, others abducted and property destroyed, as security forces continued operations against the group and health workers sought to contain the Ebola outbreak.With PTI Inputs- Ends