The Association of Small Congolese Traders (APCCO) has reported the disappearance of two of its members, Rushenge Patient and Bahati Dominique Buhendwa, since September 7 in Kamanyola, South Kivu province. According to APCCO, they were arrested by elements of the M23, now known as the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), while transporting $265,000 for purchasing goods on behalf of over 85 small traders from Salamabila and its surroundings.
The two merchants were traveling between Salamabila and Bukavu when they were intercepted in Kamanyola. APCCO President Bakenge Nfundiko Paulin stated that no information has been provided on the reasons for their arrest or their place of detention. The association has been without news of the two merchants for over 45 days and is worried about the fate of the $265,000 they were carrying, as well as their motorcycle.
The $265,000 was reportedly the capital mobilized by over 85 small traders from Salamabila for their commercial activities. APCCO has written to the UN Joint Office for Human Rights (BCNUDH) and several human rights organizations to intervene on behalf of the two merchants. The association is seeking their immediate release and the return of their belongings, including the $265,000 and motorcycle.
The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the region. The APCCO has accused the FRN/M23 of being responsible for the disappearance of the two merchants. The group has been active in the region, and there have been reports of clashes with government forces.
The UN Joint Office for Human Rights (BCNUDH) has been informed of the situation and is expected to investigate. The incident has also sparked fears about the impact on local trade and commerce. Small traders in the region often rely on capital from associations like APCCO to conduct their business.
The APCCO has called for the safe release of the two merchants and the return of their belongings. The association is also seeking guarantees that such incidents will not recur in the future. The incident has highlighted the need for improved security and protection for traders and civilians in the region.
The situation remains uncertain, with no information on the whereabouts of the two merchants or the $265,000. The APCCO and human rights organizations are continuing to push for their release and the return of their belongings.
Key points
- Two Congolese merchants disappeared with $265,000 in Kamanyola, South Kivu province.
- The Association of Small Congolese Traders (APCCO) has accused the FRN/M23 of being responsible for the disappearance.
- The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the region and the impact on local trade and commerce.
