The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has strongly condemned a rebel attack on mining sites in the Muchacha area of Mambasa territory in Ituri Province.

In a statement released on March 15, authorities said the attack took place between the night of March 11 and March 12 and targeted mining sites in the mineral-rich region.

The assault, claimed by the Islamic State, left several people dead, destroyed mining facilities, and forced civilians to flee their homes.

While expressing condolences to the families of the victims and residents of Mambasa territory affected by the violence, the government also commended the efforts of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, saying troops are continuing operations to track down and neutralize armed groups operating in the region.

According to the statement, recent military operations in Ituri Province have destroyed several bases belonging to the Allied Democratic Forces, an affiliate of the Islamic State, and recovered large quantities of explosives in Mambasa territory.

In Djugu territory, soldiers also reportedly neutralized members of the Convention for the Popular Revolution, a militia linked to Thomas Lubanga, and seized a significant cache of weapons.