Death toll in attacks by rebels climbs to 45

The death toll from attacks this week by rebels in eastern Congo has risen to at least 45, officials said Friday.

Members of the Allied Democratic Forces, a militia with links to the Islamic State militant group, attacked several villages in North Kivu province over two days, said Saidi Balikwisha, the province’s deputy.

Conflict has been simmering in eastern Congo for decades as armed groups vie for power and to protect their communities. The ADF rebels are accused by rights groups of targeting, maiming, raping and abducting civilians, including children.