Title: “Deadly clashes between Zaire and CODECO militias in Nyasi: a worrying increase in violence”
Introduction:
The territory of Djugu, in the province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the scene of violent clashes between the Zaire and CODECO armed groups. The latest clashes, which occurred in the mining town of Nyasi, caused the death of several militiamen and pushed the population to flee the area. This upsurge in violence raises concerns about the security of the region and highlights the need for government intervention to put an end to these deadly clashes.
The alarming figures of human losses:
According to security sources, around seventeen militiamen lost their lives during the clashes between Zaire and CODECO, and four others were injured. The provisional report shows 15 deaths on the CODECO side and two attackers killed and four injured on the Zaire side. These figures bear witness to the violence of the confrontation and the scale of the resulting human losses.
The consequences for local populations:
The fighting has led to the displacement of many populations in the region. Residents of Nyasi and surrounding villages have fled their homes for fear of violence. Local community leaders are calling on the government to act quickly to track down and neutralize these armed groups who are strengthening their positions in the combat zone. The current situation of insecurity is creating psychosis among the population and pushing more and more people to leave the area.
The threat of reprisals:
In retaliation for the attacks suffered, CODECO militiamen mobilized to attack the enemy camp. They come from different strongholds such as Damascus and Nguo to besiege localities under Zaire’s control, including Nyasi, Lodjo, Akwe, Mbidjo in the Banyari Kilo sector and Dhego in Bahema Nord. This escalation of retaliation only worsens the already tense situation and reinforces the urgent need for intervention to end it.
Conclusion:
The deadly clashes between the Zaire and CODECO militias in Nyasi in the Djugu territory endanger the security of local populations. The human losses reported are alarming, as are the massive displacements of populations fleeing the violence. It is imperative that the government takes urgent measures to put an end to this violence and to neutralize these armed groups which are sowing terror in the region. The stability and security of the inhabitants of Djugu must be a priority in order to allow a return to normal life and prevent further violence.