Tensions persist in Kasumbalesa, a border town between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia. In videos that have gone viral on social networks, agents from the General Directorate of Migration and the General Directorate of Customs and Excise accuse young members of the political party UDPS (Union for Democracy and Social Progress) of illegally collecting taxes. customs clearance to traders passing through the Kasumbalesa border.
According to DGM and DGDA agents, these young people from the ruling party use physical and verbal violence to obtain these undue fees. They deplore their disrespectful behavior towards their superiors and colleagues. These accusations are particularly directed against Isaac Tshiswaka, member of the UDPS and national deputy.
However, Isaac Tshiswaka rejects these allegations and declares that it is a plot against him. He claims not to have been present in Kasumbalesa for a month and declares that the recent incidents are the result of simple altercations between traders, police and customs officers.
Whatever the basis of these accusations, it is clear that tensions between young political activists and security forces in Kasumbalesa have persisted for several years. Under former President Joseph Kabila, young people from the UNAFEC political party were accused of disrupting customs activities in this region. Since the coming to power of Félix Tshisekedi and the UDPS, it is the young members of this party who have been singled out.
These customs conflicts in Kasumbalesa have repercussions on traders in the region. Many traders from Lubumbashi cross the border to Zambia to buy goods. However, some bypass customs and immigration services by smuggling through informal corridors, resulting in a loss of revenue for the authorities.
It is essential to put an end to this illegal behavior and ensure the smooth functioning of customs services in Kasumbalesa. Security measures have been taken to protect agents and enable their work. However, it is necessary to also invest in raising awareness and training young people in order to promote their understanding of customs procedures and dissuade them from resorting to illegal practices.
In conclusion, tensions between UDPS youth and the security services in Kasumbalesa persist. It is important to find lasting solutions to put an end to customs conflicts and ensure the efficient functioning of customs services in this strategic region for cross-border trade.