A brutal attack in north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has left dozens dead, with an Islamic State affiliate claiming responsibility. According to local officials, approximately 20 worshippers were killed during a night vigil at a church in the town of Komanda when fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) launched their assault.

The ADF, a group that originated in Uganda in the 1990s, has become a persistent threat in the region. Initially claiming to fight against the Ugandan government's alleged persecution of Muslims, the group has since relocated to DR Congo. There, they have expanded their attacks to include civilians of all religions and have extended their reach into Uganda as well.

The group has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and now operates as part of the organization's Central African Province, which also encompasses a group in Mozambique. RNG247 reporting indicates that nearly 90% of IS operations are now conducted by its affiliates in Africa, highlighting the growing influence and reach of the terrorist organization on the continent.

Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society coordinator in Komanda, told the Associated Press that the death toll may rise as search efforts continue. "More than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside [the church], and we have recorded at least three charred bodies and several houses burned. But the search is continuing."

Local priest Father Aime Lokana Dhego reported even higher numbers to AFP, stating, "We have at least 31 dead members of the Eucharistic Crusade movement, with six seriously injured. Some young people were kidnapped; we have no news of them." He further reported the discovery of seven additional bodies elsewhere in the town.

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the exact number of casualties. The UN-sponsored Radio Okapi website reported 43 deaths, while an army spokesperson confirmed only 10. These discrepancies highlight the difficulty in obtaining accurate information in the aftermath of such attacks, especially in a region plagued by conflict.

In 2021, the DR Congo government invited Ugandan troops to assist in combating the ADF. However, attacks have persisted despite this intervention, underscoring the challenges in effectively addressing the threat posed by the group.

Komanda is located in the mineral-rich Ituri province, an area that has been plagued by fighting between various armed groups for many years. The ongoing violence has had a devastating impact on the local population, exacerbating existing humanitarian challenges and hindering development efforts.