Abductions in Kinshasa: the population demands drastic measures in the face of growing psychosis
The city of Kinshasa has recently been the scene of a series of shocking kidnappings which have sown psychosis among the population. The perpetrators of these criminal acts, mainly young people turned into kidnappers, operated using taxis as part of their criminal activities. Families of the victims faced exorbitant ransom demands, with threats of violence if they did not cooperate.
Faced with this alarming situation, the authorities reacted quickly and succeeded in intercepting and arresting those responsible for these kidnappings. Recently, the High Court of Kinshasa/Gombe delivered important verdicts in this case. The culprits, including even police officers, were found guilty of criminal association, armed robbery and murder. Some were sentenced to death, while others received long prison sentences.
Despite these condemnations, the population remains deeply traumatized by recent events and has doubts about the effectiveness of the measures taken. Many wonder that these arrests may be just the tip of the iceberg, and that the real masterminds of these crimes are still at large. This uncertainty fuels fear and distrust among the population.
Faced with this worrying situation, the non-governmental organization “The Dynamics of the Fight against Human Trafficking and Human Trafficking” (DCTH) demanded that the Congolese authorities take more drastic measures to respond to this wave of kidnappings. The NGO’s national coordinator, Dieumerci Kitamboau, called on the Prime Minister to ensure that those convicted serve their final sentences in prisons far from Kinshasa. He suggests the prisons of Buluo in Kolwezi or Angenga in Mongala as alternatives.
It is crucial that the authorities respond to the legitimate concerns of the population by taking drastic measures to ensure security and restore confidence. In addition to prosecuting the culprits, it is necessary to put in place strategies for prevention and strengthening security, particularly in the taxi sector. Collaboration between law enforcement, transport associations and the population is essential to stem this wave of kidnappings.
The authorities are expected to take the necessary measures to reassure the population and punish those responsible for these criminal acts. In the meantime, it is important that everyone remains vigilant and adopts precautionary measures to ensure their own safety and that of their loved ones..
Ultimately, the fight against kidnappings and crime in general is a complex challenge that requires a holistic approach and cooperation between different stakeholders. People need to feel that the authorities take their concerns seriously and act decisively to end this growing psychosis. Only collective and coordinated action will guarantee a safer future for all the inhabitants of Kinshasa.