16 militants killed in clashes between CRP and CODECO in Djugu, DRC

At least 16 militiamen were killed and several others wounded on Sunday, 27 September 2026, during clashes between the Convention for the Popular Revolution (CRP) and CODECO in Nyampala, in Djugu territory, Ituri province, according to security sources.

The fighting erupted after CRP fighters attacked a position of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) in Nyampala, along National Road 27. After being repelled by the army, the CRP combatants then clashed with CODECO elements while trying to reach their stronghold in Maze.

Security sources reported that 10 CRP fighters and six CODECO fighters were killed in the confrontations. Seven other militiamen from both groups were wounded. CODECO is said to have recovered weapons and ammunition, including four AK-47 rifles and one PKM machine gun. Other sources put the CRP death toll at 16 and spoke of around ten weapons recovered.

These clashes come amid a deteriorating security situation in Djugu territory. In recent days, several incidents have been attributed to the CRP, including the kidnapping last week of around 20 people, among them six Chinese nationals. The FARDC had launched an operation against the group in the Nyampala area. After being pushed back by the army, CRP fighters tried to reach Maze via areas such as Drikpa, Tsoro and Uzi, where CODECO is active.

Local authorities have called on armed groups to respect their commitments to cease hostilities and observe a ceasefire. They have also urged the FARDC to strengthen its presence in the area to prevent further clashes and protect civilians.