The Catholic Diocese of Uvira in the Democratic Republic of Congo has strongly condemned a deadly attack on Holy Family Luvungi Parish on November 23, which left at least four worshippers dead and several others critically injured.
In a statement released shortly after the incident, Vicar General Fr. Emmanuel Musabila denounced the assault as “barbaric and cowardly,” noting that the attack targeted young people gathered for their Diocesan Youth Day celebration.
Eyewitnesses reported that an armed man—whose identity has not yet been officially confirmed—stormed the parish grounds and opened fire on the crowd. Religious sources at the scene confirmed that four people were killed and five others sustained serious injuries.
According to preliminary information, the suspected attacker is believed to be a former parish usher who recently joined the Wazalendo self-defense group. “He unleashed bloodshed within this sacred space,” Fr. Musabila said, adding that a comprehensive assessment of the casualties is still underway.
The youth celebration had brought together several groups from the deaneries of Lubarika, Katogota, Bwegera, and Luberizi. Panic spread instantly among the faithful as the victims were rushed to Luvungi Hospital for urgent treatment.
The attack comes amid worsening insecurity in eastern DR Congo, where violence has surged and the M23 rebel group continues to make significant territorial advances.
The Diocese of Uvira has called for prayers, justice, and stronger protection for civilians as violence in the region escalates.
Credit: aciafrica
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