The Congolese army announced the release of three hostages held by Mobondo militiamen in the village of Kindongo, located in the territory of Kenge, province of Kwango. The operation took place on Saturday, during clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and militiamen. At the end of these combats, a member of the Mobondo was also captured.
According to the spokesperson for the 11th military region, the militiamen had looted property, including goats, and used the hostages to transport their loot. The army also recovered two weapons of war and 23 type 00 cartridges.
During an interview with the press, Captain Anthony Mualushayi, spokesperson for the FARDC in Greater Bandundu, denounced a campaign of demonization led by certain unidentified local leaders. They allegedly attribute to the Congolese soldiers acts contrary to the rules of war, which he claims are in reality the work of the Mobondo attackers.
“These accusations aim to tarnish the image of our valiant soldiers among the population. However, this campaign is doomed to failure. Our operations respect human rights and international humanitarian law. We remain committed to eradicating the Mobondo phenomenon throughout the region,” said Captain Mualushayi.
Last week, the FARDC reported having neutralized at least eight Mobondo militiamen in nighttime fighting in the Ibuka village, in Popokabaka territory, still in Kwango province. Two other insurgents, including one wounded, were captured, and five weapons were recovered.
Jonathan Mesa
Belgium
