In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, specifically in Kinshasa, a wave of terror has gripped taxi-moto drivers, commonly known as "wewa," and money changers. Armed robbers, dressed in military uniforms, have been launching surprise attacks, stealing motorcycles and money. The drivers and money changers are living in fear, with many too afraid to report the crimes to the authorities. According to a sexagenarian taxi-moto driver, the robbers often strike at night, around 9 pm, when the streets are less crowded.
The robbers, known for their expertise in stealing new motorcycles, have been targeting drivers with recently purchased vehicles. In one instance, two robbers on a motorcycle appeared at a parking lot in the 12th street of Limete, Kinshasa, at 9 pm. They fired shots in the air, causing panic among the drivers, and stole two new motorcycles. The robbers are quick to flee the scene, often leaving their victims with no chance to react. A high-ranking official of the taxi-moto drivers' association in Limete stated that the robbers are notorious for their quick trigger fingers.
The robbers' modus operandi involves targeting drivers with new motorcycles, often within days of purchase. They are skilled in navigating the streets on motorcycles and quickly escape after committing the crime. Those who resist are often shot, with some victims sustaining serious injuries. The drivers are reluctant to report these incidents, fearing retaliation from the robbers. As a result, many cases go unreported, and the robbers continue to operate with relative impunity.
Money changers have also become prime targets for the robbers. In the 7th street of Limete, industrial area, the robbers have made it a habit to appear, armed and ready to strike. They fire shots in the air to disperse the crowd and then make off with bundles of banknotes. Those who resist are often shot, leaving them with serious injuries. The robbers' brazen attacks have left the community on edge.
The Kinshasa authorities have yet to comment on the rising incidents of armed robbery. However, according to sources, the police are aware of the situation and are working to apprehend the culprits. The robbers' use of military uniforms has raised concerns about the possible involvement of rogue military personnel. An investigation is underway to determine the extent of the involvement of military personnel in these crimes.
The impact of these attacks on the taxi-moto drivers and money changers has been significant. Many have lost their livelihoods, with stolen motorcycles and money leaving them with little to survive on. The community is calling for increased security measures to protect them from these armed robbers. Efforts are being made to enhance security in the area, including increased police presence and surveillance.
The situation remains dire for the taxi-moto drivers and money changers in Kinshasa. The armed robbers continue to operate, striking fear into the hearts of their victims. The authorities must act swiftly to bring these culprits to justice and restore a sense of security to the community. The people of Kinshasa demand action to end this wave of terror and ensure their safety.
Key points
- The robbers are targeting taxi-moto drivers and money changers, stealing motorcycles and money.
- The robbers are using military uniforms to intimidate their victims.
- The authorities are working to apprehend the culprits and restore security to the community.
