The United Nations (UN) and Pope Francis have urged immediate action after at least 36 Christians were hacked to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Reports from the region suggest the persecution of Christians is increasing, which has led to concern that a jihadist group is gaining strength in DRC.

Last week at least 36 people were killed in the North Kivu region, however some reports suggest the number is nearer 50.

The believers were tied up and killed, according to The Catholic Herald.

Christians in the north east of DRC have previously been targeted by The Islamist Allied Democratic Forces-National Association for the Liberation of Uganda (ADF-NALU).

Pope Francis has criticised the "shameful silence" over the violence and the UN has asked DRC to investigate.

The UN estimates that ADF-NALU has killed 645 people since 2014.

World Watch Monitor says attacks including rape, looting and kidnapping are not uncommon in the region.