At least 25 killed by rebels in eastern Congo

KINSHASA: At least 25 people were killed in an attack on New Year’s Eve by rebels in Congo’s eastern Beni territory, local media outlets reported.

Farmers had gone to the fields in the village of Tingwe where they were brutally attacked by Allied Democratic Forces rebels, according to the report.

Local civil society representative Bravo Muhindo confirmed more than 25 dead and said many had been beheaded. Other people were kidnapped, Muhindo said.

Residents in Beni and surrounding villages have been calling for increased security as the ADF rebels stage attacks in the region.

The ADF originated in neighboring Uganda and has long been a threat in eastern Congo.

A Congolese military campaign was launched against the rebels last year and fighters have since dispersed and fled into various parts of eastern Congo, where dozens of armed groups fight over control of the mineral-rich land.

Rebels have responded to the military offensive with increased attacks, killing more than 800 people last year. (With inputs from Agencies)