The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) won a victory against the CODECO militia in the province of Ituri, in the northeast of the country. During a search operation, loyalist forces neutralized four CODECO militiamen on national road number 27. Unfortunately, during the clash, two soldiers and a driver were injured by militia fire.
FARDC spokesperson in Ituri, Lieutenant Jules Ngongo, stressed that attacks on armed forces positions were a provocation and that the army would respond with force. He also deplored the non-compliance with the commitment to cessation of hostilities on the part of the signatory armed groups. He called on these groups to respect their commitments for the return of peace and security to the region.
Despite these violent actions, the FARDC is committed to keeping the situation under control and continuing operations against the CODECO militiamen. They also appealed to the population to dissociate themselves from these criminals and collaborate with the security forces.
This victory of the Congolese army against the CODECO militiamen testifies to the determination of the armed forces to protect the population and ensure security in the Ituri region. Fighting against armed groups remains a major challenge for the DRC, but this successful operation shows that progress is being made in the fight against insecurity.
It is essential that armed groups respect their commitments to allow real progress towards peace and stability in the DRC. The Congolese government and the international community must continue to support the efforts of the Congolese army in this fight against the militias and work together to restore peace in the region.
In conclusion, the neutralization of four CODECO militiamen by the FARDC in Ituri is an important victory in the fight against insecurity in the DRC. However, much remains to be done to ensure lasting peace. Attacks by armed groups must stop and populations must be protected. The DRC and the international community must continue to work hand in hand to achieve lasting stability and security in the Ituri region and in the entire country.