In the Totolito region of North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, tragedy has struck once again, leaving behind a heavy human toll and a community in mourning. The deadly attack that took place recently at kilometer point 20 on the Mbau-Kamango road has spread terror and desolation among the inhabitants of this peaceful locality.
The figures are chilling: at least 10 people have lost their lives, victims of the attackers who came to sow chaos and violence in this region already scarred by years of armed conflict. But behind these figures, there are lives, families and stories shattered by the tragedy.
The inhabitants of Totolito, plunged into pain and uncertainty, are crying out for reinforcement of security measures to protect them and ensure their safety during this critical period of cocoa harvest, the main source of income for many of them. They are calling for concrete measures to end this spiral of violence that is shaking their community.
The local authorities, overwhelmed by the situation, recognize the challenges they face. While some families have had to flee their homes to escape the threat, others are still resisting on the ground despite the constant danger looming over the region. Hostages are being held captive, helpless witnesses to the cruelty of the attackers.
Civil society has put the provisional death toll at 14, but the exact figure remains uncertain, leaving the spectre of fear and anxiety hanging over the population. The ADF rebels, presumed perpetrators of the attack, sowed terror before disappearing, leaving behind burned houses and shattered lives.
It is urgent that concrete measures be taken to restore peace and security to this wounded region. The international community cannot remain indifferent to this situation. It is time to end the violence and protect the civilian populations suffering the horrors of armed conflict. Totolito and its people deserve better, they deserve peace and security to rebuild their future and regain hope.