Violence in Kwango: the deadly attack by Mobondo militiamen in Ipongi reignites tensions in the region
The village of Ipongi, located in the territory of Popokabaka, province of Kwango, was the scene of a deadly attack perpetrated by Mobondo militiamen on Friday August 11. According to available information, at least ten people lost their lives during this incursion, and several houses were burned.
The origin of this violent attack dates back to the arrest of the “colonel” of the Mobondo militia by the population of the neighboring village, Fama Kolonga. This militia leader was transferred to the town of Kenge for interrogation, thus arousing the anger of his group. In retaliation, the militia launched their assault on the village of Ipongi, killing residents and taking others hostage.
The Kwango provincial government, through its spokesperson Adelard Nkisi, declared that the death toll was still provisional, taking into account the situation on the ground. He expressed concern over the fate of those taken hostage by the militiamen, saying he had taken steps to send security forces to restore security in the area.
This attack recalls the fragility of the security situation in the Kwango region, where the government had already established a curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to try to limit acts of violence. Faced with this escalation of violence, the vice-president of civil society in Kwango called for the opening of a dialogue with the Mobondo militia in order to put an end to this insecurity.
The situation in Kwango once again highlights the security challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additional efforts must be made to strengthen measures to prevent and combat armed groups and protect the civilian population.
It is essential that all stakeholders engage in a process of dialogue and search for lasting solutions in order to restore peace and security in the Kwango region and the country as a whole. Violence can never be a solution, and only a peaceful and inclusive approach will allow us to build a better future for all Congolese.