Islamic State-affiliated group continues expansion in DRC

Kinshasa, Jul 20 (Prensa Latina) The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continue their expansion in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), seeking new territories and fleeing joint operations by the Congolese and Ugandan armies.

July 20, 2026
14:43

According to the latest Kivu Security Barometer report, referenced by Actualite.CD, the armed group affiliated with the Islamic State has extended its operations beyond Beni territory in North Kivu province and is now present in the Watsa and Wamba territories in Haut-Uele province.

The report added that while the number of civilians killed in June decreased compared to the previous month, this does not reflect a weakening of the threat.

According to the report, at least 62 civilians were killed and another 57 kidnapped by the ADF in June. This is lower than the more than 190 civilians killed in 36 documented attacks in May.

However, the deadly attacks in Beni territory, especially in Mbau, Matiba, and Mayangose, among other actions in new areas, are, according to the report’s authors, an indicator that the armed group, instead of weakening, is expanding into new territories.

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