
While the intergroup armed dialogue has been taking place in Aru since Monday, June 23, including representatives from the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) militia, a new deadly attack attributed to this militia targeted the Djangi displacement site in the Djugu territory of Ituri province during the early morning hours.
Initial reports received by eyesoncongo.info indicate a preliminary toll of eleven (11) people killed and twelve (12) others seriously injured, some of whom are in critical condition.
“This is truly very regrettable; around 5 a.m., CODECO militiamen, who are present in Aru for a dialogue with local armed groups, executed eleven people and left twelve others severely injured, along with the systematic looting of the population’s belongings,” confirmed Charité Banza.
In light of the hypocrisy displayed by some active militiamen in Ituri province, Charité Banza believes that their participation in dialogues aimed at facilitating a return to peace is nothing but a complete distraction. She urges the government to arrest and prosecute the leader of the CODECO militia, as it is unacceptable for such a heinous act to occur while people are seeking peace through dialogue.
Following this latest attack, local sources in Aru report that there has been heightened tension in the room where the intergroup armed dialogue Aru II is taking place. Some members have reportedly withdrawn from the dialogue room, which is set to conclude this Friday, June 27, 2025, and discussions have temporarily been suspended at this stage, it is learned.
Since the beginning of this year, displacement sites have been targeted by CODECO militiamen in Djugu territory. Over two months ago, Djaiba, another site housing war-displaced individuals, was attacked, resulting in more than 70 deaths and significant material damage.
qw14zw