Intercommunal violence in Kisangani: a region plagued by tension and growing insecurity
Intercommunal violence in the Kisangani region, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, continues to worsen. After the deadly clashes between the Mbole and Lengola communities in Lubunga, new conflicts broke out, endangering the security of the region’s inhabitants.
Recently, two villages near Kisangani, inhabited mainly by the “Kumu” indigenous people, were the targets of barbaric violence. People were killed with machetes, others were seriously injured and houses were set on fire. This situation has pushed local authorities to take drastic security measures.
The Congolese national police, represented by the Provincial Commissioner of Tshopo, François Kabeya Makossa, announced that all necessary measures were taken to ensure the security of the populations and their property. Individuals suspected of being the instigators of these heinous acts have been arrested and will be brought to justice.
In a press release, the police also announced that any gathering of more than five people in public places was strictly prohibited, as well as the possession and circulation of bladed weapons such as machetes, arrows, iron bars, etc. The population is called upon to collaborate by reporting any disruptive or suspicious individual to the security forces.
These measures are taken with the aim of ensuring the safety of residents, but also to enforce public order and prevent new acts of violence. Any violator of these measures will be severely punished by law.
However, despite the efforts of the authorities, tension remains high in the region. New clashes have been reported on the right bank of the Tshopo river, where the villages of the Banalia axis have been deserted by residents who fear reprisals. Security forces are stationed on site to deal with any eventuality.
The situation in the Kisangani region is worrying. Intercommunal violence persists, endangering the lives of residents and fueling a dangerous cycle of violence. It is essential that concrete steps are taken to bring peace and stability to the region.
Local authorities must not only strengthen security measures, but also work for reconciliation and dialogue between different communities. It is necessary to promote tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in order to put an end to this deadly violence.
It is also crucial that the international community supports the Democratic Republic of Congo in its efforts to resolve these conflicts and restore lasting peace.. Acts of intercommunal violence must not be tolerated, and it is up to all to work together to build a peaceful and prosperous future for the Kisangani region.