The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has once again been rocked by a horrific act of violence targeting Christians, leaving 70 believers dead. This devastating attack in the north-eastern part of the country has left the Christian community reeling and in need of support and prayers as they face escalating persecution.
According to reports from field sources, the heinous incident took place in Mayba, in the territory of Lubero, where suspected militants from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) – a group with ties to the so-called Islamic State (IS) – attacked homes in the early hours of the morning. They captured twenty Christian men and women, and later captured an additional fifty believers from the local community who had gathered to try to secure the release of those held captive. Tragically, all 70 kidnapped individuals were taken to a Protestant church in Kasanga where they were brutally killed.
The director of the Kombo primary school, Muhindo Musunzi, belonging to the CECA20 church, expressed the chaos and fear gripping the area, leading to the closure of churches, schools, and health centers due to the volatile security situation. Families have been unable to bury their dead due to ongoing insecurity, prompting many Christians to flee the area for their safety.
The rise in violence and internal displacement in the DRC, particularly in the north-east region, has been attributed to the escalating threat posed by ADF militants. The group’s attacks have spread to various territories, resulting in a significant increase in the number of Christians killed for their faith and internally displaced individuals. The recent activities of the M23 rebel group have further exacerbated the vulnerability of Christians in the region, with reports of widespread human rights violations and targeted attacks on Christian communities.
Open Doors, a non-profit organization advocating for persecuted Christians, has strongly condemned the recent massacre and called for international pressure to prevent further bloodshed. They urge governments and international organizations to prioritize civilian protection in eastern DRC and address the impunity that allows such atrocities to occur. The international Christian community is also called upon to remain in prayer for the Christians and vulnerable communities in the region, seeking an end to violence and justice for the affected families.
As the Christian community in the DRC faces unimaginable horror and persecution, it is essential for individuals to raise awareness, contact their representatives, and demand action from their governments to speak out against these atrocities. Silence only emboldens the perpetrators and puts more Christian lives at risk. Prayer, advocacy, and solidarity are crucial in supporting our brothers and sisters in the DRC during these challenging times.
The situation in the DRC serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing persecution faced by Christians around the world and the urgent need for collective action to protect religious freedom and human rights. Let us stand in solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters, offering our prayers, support, and voices to bring about change and justice in the face of adversity.
