Title: “Armed attack against PHC employees in Lokutu: insight into security issues in the Democratic Republic of Congo”
Introduction :
On July 1, 2023, an armed attack took place on the Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC) site in Lokutu. This violent action by an armed militia not only disrupted company operations, but also caused serious injury to a PHC employee. In this article, we retrace the events of this attack and examine the security challenges facing the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The course of the attack:
According to available information, an armed group belonging to the Bokala-Wamba groupement carried out this attack against PHC employees. Armed with firearms and bladed weapons, the attackers targeted workers at the Lokutu site. The company’s industrial guards immediately contacted the police for help, but when law enforcement arrived on the scene, they too were targeted by the assailants.
Consequences and reactions:
The attack resulted in significant casualties for PHC and caused physical injuries to several people, including a company employee and a police officer. Following this incident, the competent authorities quickly launched an investigation which led to the arrest of those responsible for this attack. Among those arrested is the Head of the Bokala-Wamba Group, Mr. Alphonse BOSUKI MBANGA. Moreover, the industrial guard taken hostage was successfully released thanks to the intervention of the local authorities.
Context and security issues:
This attack appears to be a response to recent arrests of thieves involved in the illegal felling of palm trees belonging to the PHC by individuals from the Bokala-Wamba groupement. Despite outreach and dialogue efforts by PHC community engagement teams and local authorities, illegal activities have persisted. This incident highlights the security challenges facing the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly with regard to the protection of businesses and local communities against armed groups and criminal activities.
Conclusion :
The armed attack on PHC employees in Lokutu highlights the security challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo. This event reveals the need for stronger cooperation between companies, local authorities and security forces to guarantee the protection of workers and local communities. Promoting a secure and investment-friendly environment is key to fostering prosperity and sustainable development in the country