Article: Street children hunted down in the sewers of Kinshasa
In the streets of Kinshasa, the massive presence of street children, also called “Shegués”, continues to worry the population. These young people, aged 6 to 15, wander in groups along the Boulevard du 30 juin, soliciting alms from motorists and taking advantage of the slightest distraction to commit theft.
On July 8, an incident triggered a ruthless hunt. A young delinquent violently stole a passer-by’s phone before fleeing into a sewer on Boulevard du 30 juin, where the “Shegués” have their impregnable “base”. Witnesses to the scene, some people decided to intervene and framed the perimeter of the sewer, in order to capture the thief.
The hunt lasted nearly 45 minutes, until the thief and eight of his accomplices, including a girl, were pulled from the sewer and chased by the angry mob. They were eventually handed over to law enforcement, who arrived to arrest them.
This incident highlights the persistent problem of street children in Kinshasa. In addition to asking for alms, these young people regularly commit theft and create a climate of insecurity for the inhabitants, especially for women and young girls.
There is an urgent need to find lasting solutions to help these children and reintegrate them into society. Many NGOs and associations are already working on the ground to offer them better opportunities, but more concerted action and increased support from the authorities are needed to put an end to this problem.
It is also essential to raise awareness and promote solidarity with these marginalized children. Instead of hunting them down and punishing them, it is important to understand the reasons that drive them to live on the streets and to seek solutions that respect their rights and dignity.
In conclusion, the incident that occurred in the sewers of Kinshasa highlights the persistent problem of street children. It is essential to find lasting solutions to help them and to raise public awareness of their situation. Only a global approach, involving the authorities, NGOs and civil society, can really make a difference and offer a better future to these vulnerable young people