Beni, DR Congo—At least 24 civilians lost their lives on Sunday during a coordinated attack by ADF militants in the Beni territory. The assault began at dawn, catching residents by surprise in their homes. Armed men entered the village and opened fire, forcing hundreds of people to flee into the surrounding brush. Military sources confirmed the toll late in the evening.

Survivors reported that the attackers moved systematically through the area. They targeted homes and small businesses, leaving the center of the village in flames. The military was alerted, but the attackers vanished into the forest before reinforcements could arrive. The speed of the raid prevented a successful counter-operation in the immediate aftermath.

Local community leaders expressed deep frustration with the lack of security in the region. Attacks of this nature have occurred with alarming frequency over the past several months. Families are now gathering at a local clinic to identify the remains of their relatives. The mood in the village is one of profound shock and grief.

Military commanders have launched a pursuit of the militants. The terrain in the Beni territory is dense and difficult to navigate, which aids the armed groups in hiding. Security patrols have been intensified around the main roads, but rural areas remain highly vulnerable. There is no clear estimate of the total number of attackers involved.

Humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about the displacement caused by this latest violence. Thousands have left their farms and are seeking safety in larger, more protected towns. The lack of reliable transport makes the exodus difficult for the elderly and wounded. Efforts are underway to deliver emergency aid to the displaced population by tomorrow morning.