Article: The problem of illegal barriers on the road from Bunia to Mongbwalu in Ituri, Democratic Republic of Congo.
The road linking Bunia to Mongbwalu, in the province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is currently facing a major problem: the presence of numerous illegal barriers.
In fact, nearly 27 barriers have been erected along this road axis, sparking indignation among users. These barriers are manned by soldiers and armed groups, who demand payment ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 Congolese Francs (approximately 1 to 5 US dollars) from bikers who use this route.
This situation has caused general discontent, particularly among motorcycle taxi drivers. Jean Marie Uzele, a taxi driver, denounces this practice and believes that it is unacceptable for the military and armed groups to extort money from road users. He asks the military governor of the province to intervene and put an end to these illegal practices.
Faced with these accusations, Lieutenant Jules Ngongo Tshinkudi, spokesperson for the army in Ituri, reacted by declaring that all soldiers guilty of illegal acts will be brought to military justice. He condemns these acts and warns all those who commit them, promising that military justice will do its job.
This road is of capital importance for the province of Ituri, particularly in economic terms. It was rehabilitated thanks to the support of the provincial government during the state of siege, thus connecting the mining areas of Bunia to Mongbwalu.
It is therefore essential to put an end to these illegal barriers which harm the free movement of people and goods. This will not only guarantee the safety of road users, but also promote the economic development of the Ituri province. Faced with this situation, it is important that the competent authorities take the necessary measures to eliminate these illegal barriers and punish the perpetrators of these illegal acts. The population is waiting for concrete actions so that they can take this route safely and without being subjected to extortion.
The road from Bunia to Mongbwalu must become a symbol of development and progress for the region, and not a place of illegal practices and insecurity. It is high time to resolve this problem in order to promote smooth and safe traffic for all users of this road.