The citizen movement Struggle for Change (LUCHA) recently accused the 31st brigade of the DRC armed forces deployed in the province of Ituri, in Mambasa, of engaging in irregular mining and logging. According to LUCHA, the military focuses more on their lucrative activities rather than their mission of protecting the population against the enemies of the Republic.
In a memorandum filed with local authorities, LUCHA deplored the fact that the soldiers of the 31st brigade devote their time and resources to mining, securing Chinese workers in the mining squares and the cocoa trade. This economic involvement of the army compromises its effectiveness on the ground, particularly in the fight against rebel groups, such as the ADF, who continue to sow death and desolation in Mambasa.
Faced with this situation, LUCHA is calling for the replacement of the FARDC brigade in the region. According to them, as long as the army continues to be involved in these economic activities, they will continue to mobilize to demand the recovery of this brigade, thus exposing their community to attacks by armed groups.
The deployment of the 31st brigade aimed to stop the expansion of negative forces in the region, by strengthening the military presence in this area rich in mineral resources, particularly gold. However, according to LUCHA, the military’s involvement in economic ventures compromises this mission.
It is essential that the relevant authorities take measures to remedy this situation and ensure that the armed forces concentrate on their mission of protecting the population. The illegal exploitation of natural and forest resources only aggravates the problems in the region and harms the sustainable development of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In conclusion, it is crucial that steps are taken to end the military’s involvement in illegal mining and logging in Mambasa. The population deserves adequate protection against armed groups, and preserving the region’s natural resources is essential for a sustainable future. Civil society will continue to play its role in putting pressure on the relevant authorities to take concrete actions.