Nigeria TV Info — Military Court in Eastern DRC Convicts 23 for Collaborating with Islamic State–Linked ADF Group

Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) — A military court in Beni, eastern DRC, has convicted 23 individuals for collaborating with the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an armed group affiliated with the Islamic State (IS), marking a major breakthrough in the country’s fight against terrorism.

The verdict, delivered on Monday evening after two weeks of intense legal proceedings, found the accused guilty of participating in an insurrectionary movement, engaging in criminal conspiracy, and financing as well as executing acts of terrorism.

Sentences handed down by the court ranged from five to twenty years of penal servitude. Presiding judge Lieutenant Colonel Nyembo stated that the ruling was rendered “in application of article 7 of the military criminal code,” stressing the severity of the crimes and the government’s resolve to uphold justice.

The convicted individuals were found to have contributed to ADF activities through direct involvement in attacks, logistical support, or financial assistance. The ADF has been responsible for numerous violent assaults in Beni, Lubero, and Ituri, leaving hundreds dead and displacing thousands in recent years.

Local residents in affected areas expressed optimism that the convictions could restore some measure of peace and stability. Civil society organizations in Beni also praised the ruling, describing it as a vital step toward justice and deterrence.

“We welcome this conviction,” said Pépin Kavitha, President of Beni’s Civil Society. “We want all those arrested for similar crimes to be brought to justice here in Beni. This will serve as a warning to others who continue to aid or abet terrorism.”

Among those sentenced, Judison Kasereka Katrisa received the heaviest punishment — 20 years in prison — for financing and organizing terrorist acts, a case that drew significant public attention during the trial.

However, the defence team has vowed to challenge the ruling. “Where we find that something is not right, we will appeal, especially since the law provides for two degrees of jurisdiction,” said defence lawyer Maître Paluku. “When we are not satisfied with the outcome for one of our clients, we will refer the case to a higher court.”

The judgment underscores the DRC’s continued efforts to combat extremism and maintain security in regions long plagued by ADF violence and instability.