“Violence in Mangina: six civilians killed during clashes between the FARDC and the Mai-Mai militia”

The fighting that broke out between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and Mai-Mai militiamen in the Beni region of North Kivu has raised serious concerns among civil society in Mangina. According to the president of this organization, Muongozi Vunyatsi, six civilians were executed in cold blood during these clashes. Among the victims was an IBTP/Butembo student on vacation in Mangina, as well as his assistant mason. These heinous acts caused residents to flee the region to seek refuge in safer places.

The situation was also marked by acts of looting, with the theft of several businesses and homes. The neighborhoods of Masimbembe, Kasitu and Linzo were particularly affected by these acts of vandalism. The population, faced with this violence and growing insecurity, can only demand that the culprits be quickly identified and brought to justice.

These clashes between the FARDC and the Mai-Mai militia have worsened an already precarious situation in the Beni region. Residents live in constant fear of attacks and violence. The authorities must take essential measures to guarantee the safety of local populations and put an end to this spiral of violence.

It is essential that the army responds to the accusations against it concerning these executions of civilians. Transparency and accountability must be required, in order to restore public confidence in the security forces.

It is also crucial to support civil society in its call for the arrest of the alleged perpetrators of these killings. Those responsible for this violence must be brought to justice and held accountable for their actions. This will help restore a climate of security and trust within the community.

The situation in Mangina unfortunately reflects the many challenges facing the DRC in terms of security and protection of human rights. It is time for the authorities to take strong measures to guarantee peace and security in the Beni region, so that civilians no longer live in terror and can rebuild their lives in peace.