A significant security operation was conducted in the Malepe neighborhood of Beni, Nord-Kivu, on September 19, 2026, resulting in the arrest of at least 28 individuals, including two military personnel and seven women. The operation was carried out by law enforcement agencies in response to a surge in criminal activities in the area. The Malepe neighborhood has been plagued by a rise in crime, with over 20 cases of burglary reported since the beginning of September, some of which have resulted in loss of life.
The operation was prompted by a call from the civil society to intensify efforts to track down and apprehend perpetrators of crime in the area. The surge in crime has caused concern among residents, with many having lost valuable property during bandit attacks on their homes. According to Nasson Murara, the police spokesperson in Beni, the arrested individuals have been handed over to competent services for interrogation.
During the operation, law enforcement agencies also seized two firearms with ammunition and 169 rounds of ammunition. The origin of the seized arms and ammunition is yet to be determined, and investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding their possession. The police have appealed to the public to collaborate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious movements or behavior to help combat crime in Beni.
The Malepe neighborhood has become a major hotspot for urban insecurity in Beni, with over 50 cases of burglary reported in the city in September alone. The civil society has expressed concern over the rising crime rate, and the police have assured the public of their commitment to restoring security in the area. The arrested individuals are expected to provide valuable information that will help security agencies to identify and apprehend other perpetrators of crime.
The security operation in Malepe is part of a broader effort by the authorities to address the growing insecurity in Beni. The city has experienced a surge in crime in recent months, with many residents expressing concern over the lack of security. The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help prevent further crimes.
The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the public is seen as crucial in the fight against crime in Beni. The police have assured residents that they will do everything in their power to ensure their safety and security. The arrested individuals will face justice, and the police hope that this will serve as a deterrent to others who may be planning to engage in criminal activities.
The situation in Beni remains volatile, with residents calling for increased security measures to protect them from the rising crime rate. The authorities have assured residents that they are committed to restoring security in the city and will continue to work with the public to prevent further crimes.
Key points
- 28 people, including two military personnel and seven women, were arrested during a security operation in Beni's Malepe neighborhood on September 19, 2026.
