A violent incident occurred in Biakato, a locality in the Mambasa territory of Ituri, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on September 30, 2026. Two civilians were killed and several others injured by gunfire. The presumed perpetrator, a military man from the 3203 regiment based in Biakato, was subsequently lynched by angry youths. This was reported by the Association for the Defense and Protection of the Rights of the Child and Woman (APDEF) Mambasa.
According to Ramos Malikidogo, the person in charge of APDEF Mambasa, the military man, in an intoxicated state, first opened fire on the security guard of an hotel called La Charité. He then proceeded to another neighborhood, Mupanda, where he fired several shots at civilians. Two people were fatally hit, while several others sustained serious injuries, with some in critical condition.
The situation escalated after the shooting, with youths in the area taking the law into their own hands. They attacked and killed the military man, who had been accused of the shootings. APDEF condemned this act of vigilantism, stating that it also constitutes a violation that should be condemned. The organization called on the population to prioritize legal avenues in such incidents.
APDEF further demanded that the government take responsibility for the victims and their families. The organization called for urgent medical assistance for the injured, some of whom are in critical condition. Additionally, APDEF requested that the families of the killed civilians receive compensation, arguing that this should be the responsibility of the authorities since the military man was on duty and receiving a salary.
This incident is not an isolated case in the region. Armed men, including military personnel from the FARDC, are frequently accused of committing violence against civilians. The local population has expressed concern over the recurring nature of such incidents, which often go unpunished.
The incident has sparked outrage and concern among local and human rights organizations. Many are calling for increased accountability and measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The government has yet to comment on the incident or announce any plans to address the issue.
The people of Biakato and surrounding areas are left to pick up the pieces and mourn their losses. The APDEF and other organizations continue to advocate for the rights of the victims and their families, pushing for justice and support in the aftermath of this tragic event.
Key points
- Two civilians were killed and several others injured in Biakato, Ituri, after a military man opened fire.
- The military presumed perpetrator was lynched by angry youths after the incident.
- Local organizations are calling for government accountability and support for the victims and their families.
