The New Civil Society of the Ruwenzori sector recently raised concerns over the alleged misconduct of Democratic Republic of Congo Armed Forces (FARDC) soldiers in the Beni region of North Kivu. Members of the organization called for harsh penalties against military personnel engaged in urban crimes and insecurity, jeopardizing the cooperation between civilians and the armed forces.
Accusations were directed at FARDC soldiers deployed in the area for a month, reportedly involved in shooting three civilians in the Vimbwembwe neighborhood and extorting valuable items like cell phones and money from residents. These illicit activities not only undermine peace-building efforts in an already conflict-ridden region but also erode trust between the military and the local populace.
New Civil Society advocates for stringent measures, in line with the military penal code, to deter such reprehensible actions and prevent further harm to vulnerable civilians. Meleki Mulala emphasized the necessity of fostering understanding and collaboration between civilians and the military to ensure peaceful coexistence.
Despite unsuccessful attempts to contact the army spokesperson, a military source confirmed ongoing investigations to apprehend the soldiers responsible. It is crucial that justice prevails and preventive measures are implemented to curb such misconduct in the future.
The authorities must prioritize establishing a secure environment in Beni by holding offenders accountable. Collaboration between civil society and the armed forces is essential for long-term stability and progress in this conflict-affected region.
For more information on this issue, you can visit the following links:
1. [At the heart of the turmoil: Growing tensions in North Kivu in the DRC](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/29/at-the-heart-of-the-turmoil-growing-tensions-in-north-kivu-in-the-drc/)
2. [Outrage around the treatment of Cardinal Ambongo at Ndjili Airport](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/29/fatshimetrie-outrage-around-the-treatment-of-cardinal-ambongo-at-ndjili-airport/)
3. [The tragedy of Kibirizi: When war strikes at the heart of innocence](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/28/the-tragedy-of-kibirizi-when-war-strikes-at-the-heart-of-innocence/)
4. [The armed forces’ unwavering commitment: Airstrikes and fighting oil thieves for national and environmental security](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/28/the-armed-forces-unwavering-commitment-airstrikes-and-fighting-oil-thieves-for-national-and-environmental-security/)
For additional external information, you can also refer to this link: [Radio Okapi – Call for Sanctions Against Soldiers](https://www.radiookapi.net/2024/04/15/actualite/securite/beni-la-societe-civile-appelle-des-sanctions-contre-des-soldats-des)