In the tumultuous city of Kinshasa, new police regulations are shaking up habits. From now on, off-duty police officers are strictly prohibited from circulating in the streets of the capital with their weapons in hand. This measure, announced firmly by the provincial police commissioner, Blaise Kilimbambalimba, provoked strong reactions among the population.
During a recent meeting with the new unit commanders, Commissioner Kilimbambalimba stressed the importance of this directive, aimed at guaranteeing the security of the citizens of Kinshasa. He insisted that only police officers on official mission have the right to carry their specific equipment, including firearms, and that those who are not engaged must remain in the barracks.
This decision is part of a vast restructuring of the capital’s police units, with the aim of strengthening state authority and combating the insecurity plaguing certain neighborhoods. Mixed patrols, made up of police and soldiers, are already in action to eradicate the scourge of “kuluna” and restore residents’ confidence in the police.
The implementation of these new measures is not only a question of discipline within the police, but also a crucial step in restoring peace and security in Kinshasa. By recalling the instructions given and emphasizing the importance of continuing training, Commissioner Kilimbambalimba wants to ensure that the police respond effectively to the needs of the population and fully play their role as guarantor of public order.
This development in the police policies of the Congolese capital will not fail to spark discussions and debates on the security situation and governance in general. But it also demonstrates a desire for modernization and efficiency in the management of urban security, which could open up new perspectives for a safer and more serene future in Kinshasa.