MONUSCO blue helmets showed exemplary courage by foiling an attack by CODECO militiamen against the hospital and the site for displaced people in Drodro, in the territory of Djugu, in Ituri. This intervention saved many lives and protected vulnerable civilians from this armed threat.
The attack was carried out by CODECO militiamen who, armed and determined, advanced towards Drodro hospital, where several patients were interned after a deadly attack at the nearby Largu shopping center. Alerted, the peacekeepers of MONUSCO acted quickly, deploying on the spot to face this imminent threat.
Once there, MONUSCO forces engaged the militiamen. Despite heavy fire and resistance from these attackers, the peacekeepers managed to rout them and continued their patrols to eliminate any remaining threat.
In this critical situation, more than a thousand displaced persons from the Drodro site took refuge at the MONUSCO base, thus seeking the protection of the Blue Helmets against this violent attack. Some humanitarian workers present in the region have also taken refuge in the MONUSCO camp, testifying to the confidence placed in these peacekeeping forces.
The Blue Helmets also took charge of the evacuation of the wounded from the Largu attack to the Drodro hospital, in order to provide them with the necessary care. Calm has returned to the area thanks to the decisive intervention of MONUSCO forces, but tension persists due to the continued presence of CODECO militiamen.
This heroic action by MONUSCO blue helmets once again demonstrates the importance of the role they play in maintaining peace and protecting civilians in conflict zones. Their commitment and determination are essential to preserve security and stability in regions plagued by armed violence.
We pay tribute to these peacekeepers and salute their courage in the face of adversity. Their bravery and commitment deserve to be recognized and celebrated, as they embody the best of international solidarity and the protection of human rights