MONUSCO condemns the deadly attack on IDPs at Luhanga, North Kivu

Kinshasa, 27 November 2016 - A group of some 50 Mayi-Mayi Mazembe this morning attacked over 1000 Hutu displaced families, located at Luhanga in North Kivu, killing more than 20 and injuring a similar number. A MONUSCO detachment in the vicinity of Luhanga, upon hearing shooting, immediately deployed and engaged the Mayi-Mayi, repelling the attack. One Mayi-Mayi was killed in the engagement.

MONUSCO troops assisted the wounded and evacuated some 15 injured by helicopter to hospital in Goma. MONUSCO has deployed further reinforcements to the area, as well as a fact-finding team, in close coordination with the FARDC detachment at Luhanga. MONUSCO will assist the local authorities to visit the area tomorrow.

MONUSCO strongly condemns this attack against civilians and extends its sympathy and condolences to the families of the deceased. MONUSCO remains determined to protect civilians to the best of its ability.