Recently, shocking events shook the village of Longa, located 80 km from the center of Dekese territory. More than 45 dwellings, including houses, schools, churches, shops and pharmacies, were set on fire by clearly identified individuals. These criminals also shot at point-blank range a man of about sixty years of age.
The administrator of the territory of Dekese, Patrick Bassa, confirmed this information. He described how these acts of violence struck terror into the people of Longa. Officials used locally made weapons, which were quickly seized by law enforcement and transferred to Ilebo.
Patrick Bassa himself was attacked when he went to the scene of the tragedy with his motorcade. He managed to overcome this blocking attempt and is now asking for a thorough investigation and assistance for the victims who find themselves homeless. Some sleep under the stars while others seek refuge in termite mounds.
Despite these tragic events, Patrick Bassa wants to be reassuring by saying that calm has returned and that the populations have been able to return to their respective villages. Those arrested, who are identified as uncivic, are currently being questioned by the Ilebo military prosecutor’s office before being transferred to the secondary prosecutor’s office.
These incidents raise questions about the security and protection of citizens in the region. It is essential that the competent authorities take measures to prevent such acts of violence and to guarantee the safety of the inhabitants of Longa and the surrounding villages.
It is essential that a delegation from the province go on site to carry out in-depth investigations and provide assistance to the victims. The local population deserves to be protected and supported in this difficult period.
Longa’s drama is a stark reminder of the challenges facing Congolese society. It is necessary to work together to end this violence and establish a climate of security and peace for all the inhabitants of the region