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At least 55 people have tragically lost their lives in a deadly attack by Codeco militia fighters in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The violence erupted on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, in the village of Djaiba, located in the Ituri province.
Local officials have reported that more than 120 fighters from the Codeco militia stormed the village, opening fire on civilians. Djaiba, which is known for its valuable mineral resources, has long been a target for armed groups seeking control over the area’s wealth.
Antoinnette Nzale, the village leader, explained that Djaiba is not just a hub for mining but also a refuge for people fleeing violence from other parts of Ituri and North Kivu provinces. These displaced individuals, seeking safety, were also caught in the attack. Nzale confirmed that 55 people were killed on the spot, with many more injured. Unfortunately, the death toll may rise as the authorities continue identifying the victims and providing medical care to the injured.
The Codeco militia, primarily made up of members from the Lendu ethnic group, has been engaged in violent clashes with other armed groups over control of resources in Ituri. These ongoing conflicts have created an atmosphere of instability, leaving civilians vulnerable to frequent attacks.
This attack on Djaiba has sparked outrage and fear among local residents and the international community. Although the DRC government has vowed to take action against the militia group, the region’s difficult terrain and the presence of multiple armed factions have made it difficult for security forces to maintain order.
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In the aftermath of the attack, humanitarian organizations are urging more support for the displaced people in the area, many of whom are in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical assistance. The violence in Djaiba is a reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the DRC, where armed groups continue to devastate communities and disrupt the lives of innocent civilians.
However, with the ongoing violence and instability, the path toward recovery and stability seems uncertain. The international community is watching closely, hoping that efforts to bring peace to this troubled region will one day succeed, though the situation remains dire for those caught in the middle.
