Seventy Christians were brutally murdered in a church in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a violent attack attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces, an extremist group linked to Islamic State. The attack reportedly occurred in the village of Mayba, Lubero territory, early on Feb. 13.
According to sources, ADF militants initially captured 20 Christians by luring them from their homes under false pretenses. Later, as the community gathered to discuss their release, the attackers returned, kidnapping 50 more believers. The captives were taken to a Protestant church in Kasanga, where they were all executed.
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Escalating violence
This massacre appears to be part of a broader wave of escalating violence against Christians in northeastern DRC.
The security crisis has led to the closure of churches, schools and health centers, forcing many to flee. Families have struggled to bury their loved ones due to ongoing instability. Religious leaders and human rights advocates are calling for international intervention.
John Samuel, a legal expert with Open Doors, condemned the violence, urging global governments and civil societies to prioritize civilian protection. The massacre underscores the growing threat from extremist groups, contributing to DRC’s rise to 35th on the World Watch List for Christian persecution.
‘Widespread human rights violations’
“The violence takes place in a context of impunity, where almost no one is held accountable,” Samuel noted. “This massacre is a clear indicator of widespread human rights violations against civilians and vulnerable communities, often targeting Christians, perpetrated by ADF — a [so-called Islamic State] affiliate.”
Churches in the region remain steadfast, offering spiritual and physical aid to affected families. Christian organizations are urging believers worldwide to pray for peace, justice and safety in DRC as the crisis deepens.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was compiled from a report released by Open Doors.
