More than 3,100 civilians have sought refuge in the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) temporary base in Rhoo, in Djugu Territory, Ituri, following violent clashes between armed groups.
The violence broke out on the evening of Sunday, September 27, in the localities of Nyampala and Rhoo, involving, among others, elements of the CODECO armed group and the Convention for the Popular Revolution (CRP). The rapidly deteriorating security situation triggered an exodus of civilians, including internally displaced people who were already living at the Rhoo site.
Fearing for their safety, thousands of people, including women, children and elderly people, headed toward MONUSCO’s temporary operating base located near the displacement site. Some spent the night inside the base, while others sought refuge in its immediate vicinity, all benefiting from the protection of the Bangladeshi peacekeepers deployed there.
“We want to save our lives, which is why we came to MONUSCO for protection,” said Vyanye Dirokpa, a displaced person from the Rhoo site, in an interview with Radio Okapi.
Another resident highlighted the importance of the peacekeepers’ presence in the area: “If MONUSCO had not been here, things would have been worse. We might not even be alive today.”
Protection and emergency assistance
According to MONUSCO, approximately 3,100 civilians, including nearly 1,600 women and 900 children, benefited from protection measures implemented by MONUSCO as fighting intensified in the surrounding areas.
The Bangladeshi peacekeepers immediately secured the area, received displaced people, and provided temporary shelter and physical protection to vulnerable families. They also strengthened their presence around the displacement site and in neighboring localities, while maintaining close coordination with local authorities, community leaders, and the FARDC.
The UN mission also provided emergency medical assistance to civilians affected by the violence. Nine people received first aid at the Rhoo base, including two men with gunshot wounds, two young girls, a ten-month-old infant, and four women. MONUSCO medical teams continued to provide care to those requiring treatment, while peacekeepers continued to ensure the safety of displaced people.
A situation that remains volatile
On the morning of Monday, September 28, exchanges of gunfire were still being reported in several localities in the area, including as far as Blukwa, located approximately four kilometers from Rhoo. The persistent insecurity prompted more civilians to move closer to MONUSCO positions to seek protection.
According to security sources, suspected CODECO elements reportedly set fire to several homes in central Blukwa. MONUSCO peacekeepers, in coordination with the FARDC, intervened to repel the attackers and limit the damage caused.
Civilian protection also strengthened in Gina
Earlier on Monday, September 28, the locality of Gina, located approximately 30 kilometers south of Bunia, also experienced security incidents.
Fighting broke out between the FARDC and elements of the CRP, and many civilians also sought refuge in front of the MONUSCO base.
The Nepalese peacekeepers deployed in Gina immediately strengthened their protection measures. Patrols were conducted along the roads connecting Panga Panga, Risasi, Gina and Nyampala, as well as along National Road 27, in order to protect civilians, prevent further attacks and reassure affected communities.
Thanks to MONUSCO’s reinforced presence, in support of the FARDC, the return of residents to their homes gradually resumed in some localities. Commercial activities, particularly in markets, also began to return to normal by midday.
Following this new escalation of violence in Djugu Territory, local authorities and community actors are calling on armed groups to honor their commitments to ending hostilities and upholding the ceasefire.
- Joël Bofengo
