The escalation of violence in Ituri province, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is causing deep concern. Recent clashes between Zaire militias and the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) have resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives. According to reports from UN Special Representative Bintou Keita, 26 civilians were killed last week during clashes in Djugu territory.
The brutal assassination of 15 civilians returning from funerals in Tali, followed by their burial in a mass grave by CODECO, underlines the urgency of the situation. Joint operations by MONUSCO and the FARDC made it possible to find the bodies and transfer them to the Bunia morgue. Patrols are now in place to protect civilians and deter armed groups from continuing their abuses.
Bintou Keita expresses fears about a possible deterioration of the situation in Ituri, jeopardizing the progress made in the region’s peace process. MONUSCO continues to play a crucial role in protecting more than 100,000 displaced people and facilitating negotiations to resolve community conflicts.
This series of alarming events highlights the need for rapid and concerted action to ensure security and stability in the region. It is essential that the international community remains engaged and mobilized to support efforts to end the violence and promote peace in Ituri.