Dozens are said to be killed in rebel attack

Rebels in eastern Congo attacked a village near a mine in the eastern province of Ituri, killing at least 52 people, government officials said.

Fighters with the group known as CODECO attacked the town of Kablangete on Sunday, said Jean-pierre Bikilisende, the mayor of Mongwalu, which is four miles away. In addition to those killed, 100 civilians are missing, Bikilisende said.

Jean Ladis Maboso, an administrator in the affected area, called for justice. “It is a criminal act that cannot go unnoticed,” he said.

In February, CODECO fighters attacked the Djugu area and killed at least 60 people.

Eastern Congo has been destabilized for years by attacks by several rebel groups, including CODECO, that are vying for control of the mineralrich area. The ongoing violence has prompted thousands of rural residents to flee for safer areas.

The latest attack comes a week after discussions in Kenya between the Congolese government and rebel movements to try to establish peace and stability in the area.