- Hundreds of protesters stormed a UN peacekeeping warehouse and looted offices in Goma.
- Protesters demanding that the mission leave for failing to protect the population.
- Tensions are high in the eastern region, where resurgent clashes between the Congolese army and M23 rebel group have forced thousands to flee.
GOMA, Democratic Republic of the Congo (Reuters) – Hundreds of protesters stormed a UN peacekeeping force warehouse and looted offices in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on Monday, demanding that the mission leave for failing to protect the population.
According to Reuters, protesters blocked city roads with rocks and pebbles, ransacked offices and carted off some materials, and set fire to a gate of the mission’s compound.
“Protesters attacked one of our warehouses early this morning. They broke into one of our bases and stole the equipment. They were able to gain access to a few offices, which obviously shocked and outraged us “MONUSCO, the Congolese peacekeeping mission, issued a statement.
According to the mission, the attack occurred a day after individuals and groups made hostile remarks and threats against the United Nations.
“The events in Goma are not only unacceptable, but also completely counterproductive. The Security Council has mandated MONUSCO to assist authorities in protecting civilians “Khassim Diagne, acting head of mission, said in a statement.
“We will not make progress toward stabilisation and peace if there is chaos, confusion, or division.”
The protest was organised by a faction of President Felix Tshisekedi’s ruling UDPS party’s youth wing, which said in a statement that it was demanding the immediate withdrawal of UN peacekeepers due to their ineffectiveness.
However, another faction of the youth wing condemned the protest.
According to a spokesman for the Congolese government, the situation is being closely monitored.
“The government strongly condemns any form of attack against UN personnel and facilities,” said Patric Muyaya on Twitter. “Those responsible will face prosecution and harsh punishment.”
Tensions are high in the eastern region, where resurgent clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group have forced thousands to flee. Despite a year-long state of emergency and joint operations by the Congolese and Ugandan armies, attacks by militants linked to the Islamic State continue.
Separately, Human Rights Watch reported on Monday that the M23 rebel group had killed at least 29 civilians in areas under their control since mid-June.
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