Deadly Attack Claims 70 Lives in Western Congo Village Amidst Escalating Violence

At least 70 people, including soldiers, were killed in an attack by the Mobondo militia on the village of Kinsele in western Democratic Republic of Congo. The violence, driven by conflicts between Teke and Yaka communities over land and customary claims, has intensified despite a ceasefire agreement in April 2024.

At least 70 individuals, including nine soldiers and one soldier's wife, were killed during an assault on the village of Kinsele in western Democratic Republic of Congo. Local authorities reported the attack, carried out by members of the Mobondo militia, which defends the Yaka people amidst escalating violence between rival communities.

The deadly assault occurred on Saturday in Kinsele, located around 100 kilometres east of Kinshasa, the nation's capital. Due to the region's insecurity and poor infrastructure, major attacks can take days to be reported. Kinsele is part of the Kwamouth territory, which has been a hotspot for conflicts between the Teke and Yaka communities.

Violence has intensified in western Congo as the country simultaneously battles armed groups in its eastern regions. According to David Bisaka, a provincial deputy, security forces are still searching for bodies after routing the militia for the second time within a week. The Mobondo militia initially attempted an attack a day earlier.