Deadly clashes between residents of the villages of Nyatsa and Avodro, located in the Luu chiefdom, Aru territory in Ituri, raged on August 22. The death toll from this violence, which began following a land conflict, rose from seven to twelve deaths, including seven men in uniform.
The notables of the region deplore the exploitation of this customary conflict by disruptive elements who seek to sow trouble and discord. In a statement relayed by Okapi, they call on the two conflicting parties to resort to peaceful means to resolve their differences. They also emphasize the need to strengthen mechanisms for securing civilians and promoting peaceful cohabitation in the region.
The province of Ituri, like North Kivu, has been placed under a state of siege since May 2021, with the aim of combating armed groups and restoring state authority. Despite the commitment of security forces, armed groups such as the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODEC) continue to carry out massacres against civilians, thus worsening the already precarious security situation.
It is crucial that military and civilian authorities step up their efforts to prevent further clashes and guarantee the security of local populations. Meetings must be organized to encourage the peaceful resolution of disputes and promote harmonious coexistence between communities.
It is also essential that the international community supports the Democratic Republic of the Congo in its efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. Continuing actions to neutralize armed groups and strengthen security capacities is essential to put an end to violence and guarantee the security of populations.
It is time for concerted action to put an end to these intercommunity conflicts and promote inclusive dialogue and reconciliation. Peace and security are essential prerequisites for the economic and social development of the Ituri region and the Democratic Republic of Congo as a whole.