News in the DRC: the CODECO militia attacks the displaced in Ituri
In a recent tragic event in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the militia of the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) carried out a deadly attack against displaced people in the province of Ituri, which is under state of seat for more than two years.
According to a report by the NGO Human Rights Watch (HRW), Lendu militia fighters attacked the Lala camp, where there were mainly displaced people from the Hema community, during the night. The assailants opened fire and used bladed weapons, killing 23 children, 13 women and 10 men. Eight other people were injured. HRW points out that Congolese soldiers and nearby United Nations peacekeepers did not intervene to protect civilians.
This attack is unfortunately the reflection of a recurring reality in Ituri, where civilians living in camps for displaced people have become a privileged target of the CODECO militia. These camps, supposed to be places of refuge, are transformed into real massacre zones.
It is imperative that Congolese forces and UN peacekeepers fulfill their protection mandate to ensure the safety of displaced people. The late intervention in this attack highlights the need to improve rapid response and alert mechanisms in crisis situations.
In this tragedy, HRW conducted interviews with survivors and witnesses, who described the brutal attack perpetrated by CODECO fighters. Some were awakened by gunfire, while others were killed inside their shelters. The fighters also burned many huts, causing many civilian casualties. The charred bodies testify to the inhuman violence of this attack.
It is also disconcerting to note the lack of reaction of MONUSCO (United Nations Stabilization Mission in DR Congo) and the Congolese army during this attack. Despite emergency phone calls, no help arrived on the scene. Once again, the failings of the civilian protection system are highlighted.
This sad reality in Ituri is reminiscent of past and enduring violence in the region, which began in the 2000s. Conflicts related to land, ethnic issues and control of natural resources have resulted in thousands of victims.
There is an urgent need for more effective measures to protect civilians in the DRC, especially those who have been displaced by the conflicts. The international community must support efforts to end impunity and promote justice and security for all inhabitants of the region.
This new attack in Ituri is a reminder of the need to stay informed about current events in the DRC and to support initiatives aimed at promoting peace and security in the country