CAR: Security situation remains tense in Bangui

Event

According to local sources, clashes and gunshots between national armed forces and militia members erupted in the Muslim-majority PK5 district of the capital Bangui, as well as in nearby neighborhoods - including Yakité, Castors, and Sara - on Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6. At least four people were reportedly wounded in the clashes. Further tensions and related violence are likely in the coming days.

Context

Tensions significantly increased in Bangui following attacks that targeted a church and a mosque on May 1, leaving 24 people dead and more than 170 wounded.

Numerous clashes have broken out in Bangui in recent weeks, notably in the PK5 neighborhood. The UN peacekeeping mission in CAR (MINUSCA) launched a series of security operations in the PK5 district of Bangui on April 8-10, targeting Muslim self-defense militias at the request of local residents following reports of violence and extortion. On April 8, unidentified gunmen attacked a MINUSCA base in Bangui, killing two people. On April 10, at least 21 people were killed in clashes between UN peacekeepers and Muslim self-defense groups in the PK5 neighborhood and the 3rd arrondissement.

Numerous Western governments have issued travel advisories following the deterioration of the security situation in CAR. On April 10, French diplomatic authorities issued a new travel advisory for CAR, advising their citizens to avoid all nonessential travel to the country. Also on April 10, US diplomatic authorities issued a security alert urging their citizens to avoid the PK5 neighborhood and the 7th arrondissement of Bangui. On April 12, the UK issued a travel advisory, advising against all nonessential travel to central Bangui, and against all travel to the rest of CAR.

Advice

Individuals present in Bangui, and CAR more generally, are advised to monitor local developments and maintain a high degree of situational awareness. Avoid all demonstrations or other public gatherings and be prepared to shelter in place (stock up on food, water, and other necessities) in the event of a sudden deterioration in the local security situation. More generally, a number of Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the east and northeast of the country for various security reasons, including the presence of armed groups and ongoing conflicts.