Militants Attack, Burn Ebola Treatment Center In N. Kivu Province

Suspected militants have attacked an Ebola treatment center in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, reports Reuters. 

Unknown gunmen opened fire on the center in Butembo on Wednesday, launching a gun battle with security forces, said the health ministry. 

At the time of the attack, the center was caring for 38 people suspected of having the disease and 12 confirmed cases. 

Four of the patients with confirmed cases fled during the attack, said the ministry. 

None of the patients who have been accounted for were injured in the fight. 

There were no immediate claims of responsibility. Militants often target international aid groups, who are viewed with suspicion or as easy targets. 

This was the second attack on a Doctors With Borders Ebola treatment facility in North Kivu province this week. On Sunday, the facility in Katwa, east of Butembo, was attacked and set on fire, reported the Guardian (U.K.). The non-governmental organization was forced to close the clinic due to the damage. 

The country is currently battling the second-deadliest Ebola outbreak on record, with 553 people dead and 300 more currently infected.