Deadly clash between the FARDC and CODECO militiamen in the Ituri region
In a sad incident that occurred recently in the Ituri region, three civilians lost their lives during a clash between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the militiamen of the Cooperative for the Development of Congo ( CODECO). Security sources also report that several militiamen were seriously injured during the exchange of fire.
According to information collected, CODECO militiamen first attacked the FARDC position in retaliation for their ban on circulating with weapons and military equipment. This measure was put in place as part of the execution of a peace agreement signed last June in Aru.
The day after the incident, a movement of more than a hundred CODECO militiamen was reported in their stronghold of Lobu and Bbali, north of Libi, in the Walendu Pitsi sector. Sources indicate that this movement aimed to avenge their comrades injured during the clash with the FARDC.
The fleeing militiamen committed acts of violence by burning six straw houses and disrupting traffic on the Libi-Dhera and Nyoka axis, on national road number 27.
Faced with this worrying situation, a FARDC commander present on site took the decision to prohibit all militiamen from circulating with weapons and military equipment in urban areas. This measure aims to ensure the safety of local populations and to avoid possible reprisals.
The civilian population, for its part, is demanding the urgent intervention of the national army to protect the communities and restore tranquility in the region. This intervention is also crucial to allow the resumption of traffic on the axis linking Ituri to East Africa.
Importantly, this case highlights the ongoing security challenges facing the Ituri region. Clashes between armed groups and security forces continue to cause human losses and disrupt the daily lives of populations.
It is essential that the Congolese authorities strengthen their efforts to guarantee peace and security in the region, while encouraging respect for the peace agreements already concluded. Only concerted action can provide a lasting solution to this crisis and offer local communities the stability and tranquility to which they have aspired for so long.