The attack on Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC) employees in Lokutu on July 1, 2023 sparked outrage and concern. An armed militia, belonging to the Bokala-Wamba group, used firearms and knives to carry out this violent attack. The aftermath has been disastrous, with major disruption to the business and injured employees, including a PHC employee who had to be taken to hospital for urgent treatment.
Faced with this dangerous situation, the PHC industrial guards quickly appealed to the police for help. Unfortunately, once there, the police were also attacked by the assailants. A police officer was injured and his firearm was forcibly taken. In addition, an industrial guard of the company was taken hostage by the attackers.
The competent authorities immediately took measures to investigate this attack and succeeded in arresting those responsible, among whom is Mr. Alphonse BOSUKI MBANGA, the Head of the Bokala-Wamba Group. This arrest allowed the release of the industrial guard taken hostage on July 3, 2023.
According to available information, this attack was a reprisal against the actions taken by the PHC to put an end to the illegal felling of palm trees by thieves from the Bokala-Wamba group. Despite awareness-raising efforts and interventions by local authorities, these illicit activities have persisted, leading to arrests by the competent authorities.
PHC strongly condemns these violent acts which not only caused significant material loss to the company, but also injured members of the local community who worked for PHC as well as members of law enforcement. The company wishes to reaffirm its commitment to good relations with local communities and its desire to contribute to shared prosperity through agribusiness, in line with the vision of its new leaders.
For more information on the Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC), you can consult their official website: www.phc-congo.com.
This sad incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures to protect businesses and employees against such attacks. It also highlights the importance of dialogue and collaboration with local communities to prevent and resolve conflicts. Hope that adequate measures will be taken to avoid such incidents in the future and ensure the safety of all actors involved in the economic development of the region.