Armed men from the “Self-Defense” group in Ituri have handed over at least 470 weapons to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), according to Radio Okapi, marking a new step in local peace efforts.

The disarmament took place during two ceremonies held on August 21 in Jailo and August 23 in Mabanga, in the Mambisa chiefdom of Djugu territory. Military officials, civilian representatives, and traditional leaders attended the events.

Among the weapons surrendered were 45 AK-47 rifles and two PKM machine guns, all with their magazines, according to local authorities.

Officials say the move follows months of awareness campaigns led by political, social, and traditional actors who have encouraged militias to leave the bush and join peace initiatives.

Michel Meta, president of Ituri’s 21 communities, described the handover as “a glimmer of hope” for a province scarred by decades of armed conflict. He credited the army’s sustained pressure on militias for forcing fighters to disarm and said the momentum should be maintained.

However, Meta warned that the continued presence of illegal weapons still poses a threat to communities. He urged security forces not to limit their efforts to the Self-Defense group but to intensify operations against other armed movements, including Codeco, which has been linked to recent deadly attacks in Ndo-Okebo.

“There must be no double standards,” he stressed. “The hunt must continue against all armed groups, without exception, because the threat remains real and could compromise peace.”