26 Apr 2018 | 09:21 AM UTC
DRC: LUCHA protesters arrested in Beni April 25
Arrests during LUCHA youth protest in Beni (North Kivu) April 25 denouncing rising insecurity; avoid all gatherings
Event
Members of the LUCHA youth group held a protest in Beni (North Kivu; east) on Wednesday, April 25, to denounce the increased insecurity in the area. Security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters, injuring four, and arrested at least 42 members of the group. Further protests are likely in the coming days and weeks.
Context
The government's limited presence in the DRC's eastern provinces, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias (Maï-Maï militias) have led to continued insecurity in the area. In 2017, North and South Kivu provinces recorded an uptick in armed group activities.
Advice
Individuals present in the DRC are advised to monitor the situation, maintain a high degree of situational awareness, and avoid all rallies and demonstrations due to the risk of violence.
