Two Rangers Killed in Armed Attack at Kamuhororo

Two Rangers Killed in Armed Attack at Kamuhororo

Virunga National Park is deeply saddened to announce the deaths of two Rangers following a deliberate armed attack on the ICCN post at Kamuhororo, on the southern shore of Lake Edward, on the morning of Thursday, 21 May 2026. The two Rangers killed were Kasereka Valyathire Baraka and Munguakonkwa Mihigo Jacques. Both men were carrying out their duties in protection of the Park when an unidentified, heavily armed group attacked their position.

Virunga National Park and the ICCN extend their deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, and fellow Rangers of the deceased. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Kasereka Valyathire Baraka joined the ICCN in 2018 and served as a First Class Guard and Patrolman. He was 35 years old and is survived by his widow and two children.

Munguakonkwa Mihigo Jacques joined the ICCN in 2017 and served as a Senior Guard and Section Leader. He was 34 years old and is survived by his widow and two children.

This attack was premeditated and unprovoked. It constitutes a grave violation of Congolese law – specifically Law No. 14/003 of 11 February 2014 on nature conservation in the DRC – and occurs at a moment when our teams are working under exceptional pressure to protect the Park amid the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.

The ICCN’s Provincial Directorate in North Kivu has called for an immediate and thorough investigation to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators and those who ordered this attack. We fully support that call.

Virunga National Park remains unwavering in its mission to protect this extraordinary landscape and the people who depend on it.

For more information, please contact [email protected]

Photos by Virunga National Park. Left: Kasereka Valyathire Baraka. Right: Munguakonkwa Mihigo Jacques.