[ad_1]
The United Nations said Wednesday that a mass grave containing the bodies of 49 civilians had been discovered in northeastern Congo after a series of weekend attacks blamed on local militias.
UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters in New York that graves were found in two villages in Ituri state, about 30 kilometers east of the town of Bunia.
A total of 42 victims, including six children, were found in a mass grave in Nyamamba village, while the bodies of seven other men were found in another village, Haq added.
“Peacekeepers launched patrols in the area shortly after receiving reports of attacks on civilians by the Kodeko militia over the weekend. They made a horrifying discovery,” Haque said in New York. Told.
Local authorities say CODECO militants also kidnapped many women during attacks on villages.
Last June, CODECO’s seven factions announced an end to violence against civilians in Ituri. Mostly violence in Djug territory, where they were very active. However, they are gradually resuming attacks in the area.
At least 195 people have been killed in a series of attacks since December allegedly involving CODECO militias and other militants, according to the United Nations. More than 1.5 million people have been displaced by fighting in Ituri province.
[ad_2]
Source link
