Trafficking in human organs in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, is a topic that has recently raised serious concerns. However, the Congolese government categorically denied these allegations, saying that there was not enough infrastructure or expertise to carry out such operations.
The Deputy Minister of Health, Serge Olene, explained to the press that the transplantation and trafficking of human organs required specific conditions to be carried out successfully. He pointed out that Kinshasa did not have the necessary infrastructure to store the harvested organs, and that the organs had a limited lifespan outside the body. Moreover, he specified that organ harvesting required experienced surgeons and trained teams, as well as prior compatibility tests.
The Deputy Minister also recalled that the DRC does not have the expertise or the equipment necessary to carry out these types of examinations, and that it would take years of training to do so. He therefore claimed that the information circulating on social networks was unfounded, and called on the alleged victims to come forward in order to be able to investigate in more detail.
Despite government denials, people in Kinshasa remain suspicious, especially of taxi drivers nicknamed “Ketches”, who were mentioned in the alleged kidnappings. The authorities have taken action by setting up mixed patrols and checkpoints to track down criminals and reassure residents.
Pending new information and more in-depth investigations, it is essential to remain vigilant in the face of rumors and to trust the official declarations of the competent authorities. Trafficking in human organs is a serious crime that must be fought with determination, but it is also important not to spread false information that could cause panic and harm the stability of the region