Attack by Islamic State-Linked Group in Eastern Congo Results in 25 Deaths

On January 25, 2026, a militant group linked to the Islamic State, known as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), launched a violent attack in eastern Congo, resulting in the deaths of at least 25 individuals. The assault occurred around 4 a.m. in the village of Apakulu, located in the Irumu territory of Ituri province. Reports indicate that 15 victims were burned alive in a house, while seven others were shot. Additionally, three more fatalities were reported in the nearby Walese Vonkutu administrative area.

25 killed in attack by Islamic State-backed group in eastern Congo, rights group saysIslamic State-linked attack in eastern Congo leaves 25 deadAt least 25 killed in attack by Islamic State-backed group in eastern Congo

The ADF has been active in eastern Congo for several years, having originated from an insurgency against Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. Following military pressure from Uganda, the group relocated to Congo, where it has since been implicated in numerous violent incidents. The region has seen a marked increase in violence, with the ADF and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group conducting frequent attacks. In July 2025, the ADF was responsible for a series of assaults that claimed over 100 lives.

At least 25 killed in attack by Islamic State-backed group in eastern Congo25 killed in attack by Islamic State-backed group in eastern Congo, rights group saysIslamic State-linked attack in eastern Congo leaves 25 dead

In response to the escalating violence, the Ugandan and Congolese armed forces have been conducting joint military operations aimed at dismantling the ADF. Despite these efforts, the group continues to carry out attacks. A recent U.N. report highlighted that the ADF was responsible for 138 killings in eastern Congo in November 2025, underscoring its status as one of the region's most lethal armed groups.

Islamic State-linked attack in eastern Congo leaves 25 dead

Christophe Munyanderu, president of the Convention for the Respect of Human Rights, described the recent attack as a "true massacre," emphasizing the tragic nature of the violence. There has been no immediate response from the ADF regarding the attack.

Islamic State-linked attack in eastern Congo leaves 25 dead

Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the ongoing violence and the inability of local and international forces to effectively curb the ADF's activities. Critics argue that the joint military operations have not yielded significant results, as the group continues to perpetrate violence against civilians.

Islamic State-linked attack in eastern Congo leaves 25 dead

While multiple sources report the death toll as at least 25, there are discrepancies regarding the exact number of casualties and the details surrounding the attack. The Islamic State, through statements distributed by SITE Intelligence Group, claimed responsibility for several attacks in the region, asserting that they killed 35 people, including two Congolese soldiers, during a series of operations from January 23 to 26.

25 killed in attack by Islamic State-backed group in eastern Congo, rights group says

The situation in eastern Congo remains precarious, with ongoing military operations against the ADF. Local authorities and human rights organizations are likely to continue monitoring the situation closely, as further violence is anticipated in the region.

Islamic State-linked attack in eastern Congo leaves 25 dead