The Beni garrison military court in the Democratic Republic of Congo has handed down verdicts in a high-profile case involving collaboration with the Allied Democratic Forces, a militant group affiliated with the Islamic State. Twenty-three individuals received sentences ranging from five to 20 years of penal servitude for their roles in participating in an insurrectionary movement, criminal conspiracy, financing, and carrying out acts of terrorism.

The sentences, which were handed down on Monday evening, mark a significant turning point in the fight against terrorism in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The court’s presiding judge, Lieutenant Colonel Nyembo, cited the severity of the sentences, which were given in accordance with article 7 of the military criminal code. The convictions target individuals whose involvement with the Allied Democratic Forces has been established, whether through direct participation in attacks or logistical and financial support.

Civil society has welcomed the decision, with the president of Beni’s civil society, Pépin Kavitha, expressing satisfaction with the convictions. However, the legal process is far from over, as defense lawyer Maître Paluku has announced plans to appeal the verdict on behalf of his clients. The heaviest sentence, 20 years of penal servitude, was handed down to Judison Kasereka Katrisa for financing and acts of terrorism.

The ruling comes amid ongoing violence and escalating attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces. In early September, the region was rocked by a tragedy in which rebels killed around 100 people in Ntoyo, North Kivu, targeting residents who had gathered for a funeral. The eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, including Ituri and North Kivu, have become a major humanitarian and security crisis, with populations living under the constant threat of violence.

The severity and scope of the Beni military court’s verdict mark an important step in the long and difficult battle for peace and justice in the region. The convictions have been seen as a glimmer of hope for improved security in the territories of Beni, Lubero, and Ituri, which are often targets of Allied Democratic Forces violence. However, it remains to be seen whether these convictions will actually help to curb the expansion of armed groups and restore security and serenity to the local populations.