In the current context of the city of Beni, a worrying problem seems to be emerging, highlighting alarming situations. Indeed, testimonies report the cohabitation of young girls with soldiers in military camps along the road leading to the national airport of Mavivi. This practice, which has been going on for three months, raises legitimate concerns within the local community.
The inhabitants of the Nzuma, Matembo and Mavivi neighborhoods express their dismay at this worrying reality. Parents report that their daughters aged 13 to 16 find themselves in cohabitation with soldiers, some even spending entire nights in these camps and sometimes abandoning their studies. The consequences of these illicit relationships are detrimental both morally and in terms of child protection.
The local civil authorities, faced with this delicate situation, urge the military authorities to intervene to put an end to these acts which compromise the safety and well-being of the children involved. The protection of young people must be an absolute priority, and it is imperative that concrete measures are taken to stop this unacceptable phenomenon.
The army spokesman in Beni, Colonel Mack Hazukayi, stated that the military hierarchy was not informed of these practices and stressed that the military has strict rules regarding relations with minors. However, he assured that any official complaint would be followed by a rigorous investigation and that sanctions would be taken if necessary.
It is essential that corrective actions are taken quickly to prevent future incidents and protect vulnerable young girls in the region. The fight against all forms of exploitation of minors must be carried out with firmness and determination, in order to guarantee a safe and healthy environment for all members of the community.