On Feb. 13, 2025, 70 people were captured and killed for their Christian beliefs in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It is unknown who committed these heinous acts, though it is suspected that an Islamic rebel group known as the “Allied Democratic Forces” (ADF) are behind it.
The attack took place in Mayba, a largely Christian region of the DRC. This area in specific has been home to much conflict between the Christian civilians and groups like the ADF. At 4:00 A.M., 20 people were taken captive and told to remain silent. Following this, 50 others gathered and attempted to rescue the captives. Unfortunately, this only resulted in them being taken, as well, and all 70 civilians were taken to a nearby church and killed.
“Field sources say that even several days after the attack, some families had not been able to bury their dead because of the insecurity in the region. Many Christians have fled the area to somewhere deemed safer,” a reporter for Open Doors International said.
The families of the victims have not been able to properly mourn the loss of their loved ones, as they are afraid to risk holding any type of gathering with the ADF around. Many have even resorted to fleeing their homes in an attempt to protect themselves from similar attacks. All this conflict and horror arose simply because of a difference in beliefs; this is not the first time Christians have been targeted by Islamic terrorist groups within the DRC.
“I feel sorry for the families. This should not happen to anybody. Let us hope that things like this can be stopped in the future,” Royce Paris, junior, said.
Loved ones of these victims are now stranded in a place with only persecution and no end in sight. Options become more and more limited with each passing day, especially for those with children. It becomes either stay and await rescue or take things into their own hands and attempt an escape. Few countries have offered government aid, but many Christian organizations such as Christian Aid and World Relief have focused their efforts on sending food and other supplies to these persecuted groups.
“I hope people and groups like this are stopped because this is so bad,” Andrea Delgado, sophomore, said.
Initiatives like Barnabas Aid are trying to spread awareness on this subject matter. As a community, people must come together to put a stop to discrimination like this. There is only one thing that can combat hate: love for the fellow man.
