Zambia: Over 8000 refugees flee DRC since September /update 1

Event

According to the local sources, over 8000 refugees - many of whom are children - have fled the DRC regions of Katanga and Tanganyika to Zambia since September. According to the UN, people are escaping ethnic clashes and fighting between armed groups and government forces.

Context

Numerous armed groups are active across the DRC, including the Maï-Maï ethnic-based self-defense militia groups. Violent clashes between these groups and government forces, as well as between rival groups, are common.

Advice

All those present in affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.