The death toll from the attack by Mobondo militiamen in the Ipongi village, in Kwango province, is increasing. While initial reports showed 10 people killed, provincial government spokesperson Adelar Nkisi announced that the number of victims now stands at 14. A tragedy which also caused the massive displacement of the local population .
The details of the attack are appalling. The Mobondo militia not only killed villagers with bullets and machetes, but they also burned several houses. This merciless violence sowed terror among the population, who had to flee to save their lives.
According to local authorities, this brutal attack was a reprisal following the arrest of a Mobondo militia leader by village residents. However, this spiral of violence is unfortunately not new in the region. Since May 12, Kwango has been plunged into insecurity created by this militia. The consequences are devastating: loss of life, houses destroyed, property looted and a population forced into exodus.
In an attempt to restore security in the region, a curfew was imposed from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. However, it is clear that additional measures must be taken to end this spiral of uncontrollable violence.
This attack in the Ipongi village highlights once again the urgency of resolving the problem of insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Local populations live in constant fear, deprived of their fundamental right to security. It is therefore essential that the authorities take concrete measures to dismantle these militias and protect citizens.
Insecurity in the DRC cannot be ignored. It is necessary for the international community to support the Congolese government’s efforts to restore order and stability in the country. Preventive and repressive measures must be put in place to deter armed groups and guarantee the security of local populations.
In conclusion, the attack by Mobondo militiamen in the Ipongi village in Kwango once again highlights the urgency of putting an end to insecurity in the DRC. The human lives lost and the suffering endured by the local population are intolerable. It is imperative that concrete actions are taken to dismantle militias, protect citizens and restore peace in the Kwango region.