The security situation in the province of Kwango in the Democratic Republic of Congo is once again in the spotlight after violent clashes between the Mobondo militia and the police and security forces.
The fighting which lasted two days caused the death of at least eleven people, including decapitated soldiers. The toll is growing as the bodies of two civilians killed have been found at the scene of the incidents.
The Kwango provincial government is trying to regain control of the situation by strengthening security arrangements in the region. Mixed army and police patrols are insufficient to monitor the surroundings and prevent any escalation of violence.
A curfew has also been decreed to deal with this insecurity. From 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., free movement is restricted in Kwango province to avoid any overflow.
Following these tragic events, the Congolese State dispatched law enforcement to restore peace in the region. Arrests have been made and the Mobondos arrested must be transferred to Kinshasa.
The growing insecurity in the Kwango is a major challenge for the Congolese population, as it hinders the economic and social development of the region. The authorities must act quickly to restore security and guarantee the protection of local populations