In a tense context, marked by clashes between the Nyatsa and Adroval villages, in the province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the military administration of the region recently made an update to clarify the situation. Led by Lieutenant-General Luboya N’kashama, the military administration deplored the violence that erupted during this land dispute.
According to local security sources, the clashes reached their climax on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. One of the conflicting parties called in the local Zaire Mazembe militia, which targeted innocent civilians. This armed intervention resulted in the death of seven people, including five civilians and two policemen.
Faced with this alarming situation, the Military Governor, Lieutenant-General Luboya N’kashama, warned the local communities who support the rebels, calling on them to preserve peace. In a message relayed by the spokesperson for the army in Ituri, Jules Ngongo, the Governor underlined the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and refusing any manipulation.
In order to counter any attempt to destabilize the Aru region, the Commander of Operations and Military Governor of Ituri ordered the defense and security services to reinforce the security arrangements. In addition, the Governor called on the justice system to quickly investigate the perpetrators of these acts of violence.
According to the army, the situation in Aru is now under control, but it is essential to remain vigilant and to continue to prioritize peace and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Lieutenant-General Luboya N’kashama recalled the importance of preserving social cohesion and the achievements of the State of Siege in the Ituri region.
This update on the military administration of Ituri highlights the challenges faced by certain regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Land disputes, often exacerbated by community rivalries, can have devastating consequences for civilian populations. It is crucial to promote peace, dialogue and justice to preserve tranquility and social cohesion in these regions