The attacks, which took place between August 9 to 16, in the localities of the territories of Beni and Lubero, cost the lives of at least 52 civilians, including eight women and two children, but the soldiers of peace on the ground say that the number of deaths could very well increase.
“These attacks targeting civilians, which add to the atrocities committed in the night of July 26 to 27 in Komanda (territory of Ituri, Ituri), are intolerable and constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights,” said Binto Keita, head of the United Nations Mission in the DRC, known as Monusco.
Call to armed groups
Violent attacks have been accompanied by kidnapping, looting and burning of houses, vehicles and motorcycles, as well as the destruction of goods belonging to the population already confronted with disastrous humanitarian conditions.
Monusco issued a declaration Calling for foreign armed groups, such as ADF, to lay arms unconditionally and to return to their country of origin.
The mission has also urged “the Congolese authorities to conduct in -depth investigations to identify those responsible for the massacre of civilians and translate them into justice”.
Stronger military presence
In response to this new wave of violence, the peacekeeping mission has strengthened its military presence and support for the Congolese authorities.
For example, on August 13 and 14 during Mayi-Moya incidents in northern Kivu, Monusco provided physical protection at 206 civilians, including 93 children and 70 women, who had taken refuge at the mission military base.
“Monusco remains fully determined to support the Congolese authorities and local communities to prevent new violence, protect civilians, reduce tensions and contribute to the stabilization of areas affected by armed conflicts,” he said.
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
