Operation Ndobo, recently launched by the Minister of the Interior of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jacquemain Shabani, aims to combat the scourge of the Kulunas, these urban bandits who sow terror in the country’s cities. The name of this operation, “Ndobo” (hook), seems well chosen because it perfectly illustrates the authorities’ desire to trap and apprehend these criminals to bring them to justice.
Jacquemain Shabani stressed that this operation is part of a broader approach aimed at strengthening the capacities of the Congolese National Police in the fight against urban crime. The police’s efforts will be concentrated on several cities in the country, including Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Matadi, Kisangani, Mbandaka and Goma, in order to guarantee the security of citizens and restore public order.
This new initiative comes after the launch of Operation Black Panther in April 2024, which also aimed to combat urban banditry. Despite criticism and doubts expressed by some political and civil society actors about the effectiveness of previous operations, the Ministry of the Interior remains determined to intensify police actions to put an end to the insecurity that reigns in certain areas of the country.
In parallel with the fight against the Kulunas, the Minister of the Interior also addressed the issue of traffic jams in Kinshasa. Measures will be taken to improve road traffic management and reduce the blockages that hinder traffic in the Congolese capital.
It is clear that these urgent actions are necessary to restore citizens’ confidence in the security forces and ensure a safe and stable environment for all. Expectations are high, but with a coherent strategy and effective implementation, it is possible to hope for significant progress in the fight against urban crime in the DRC.
This new offensive against the Kulunas represents an important step in the right direction, and it is essential that the authorities continue to work with determination to ensure the safety and tranquility of citizens in all cities across the country.