FARDC restores public order in Ituri

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) announced during a press conference on Thursday, October 30, that they have successfully restored public order and reasserted state authority in several villages within the Djugu territory of Ituri province, currently under a state of siege.

According to Lieutenant Jules Ngongo, the army's spokesperson in the province, the reclaimed villages include Galay, Lodjo, Pili Pili, Beba, Pluto, and Mulanday, located in the Banyali Kilo chiefdom. Previously under the control of armed groups, these areas are now secured by the FARDC.

“The FARDC conducted operations against the Zaire militia after they attempted to sabotage a Congolese National Police unit. We have restored public order in Djugu, particularly in its mining areas, which had been hotspots for clashes between armed groups. The armed forces have regained control over localities previously dominated by militiamen,” Lieutenant Ngongo stated.

Since early 2024, the region has witnessed ongoing conflict between the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) militia and the Zaire militia, both vying for control over mining sites.