DRC: As of April 5, State of Siege in Ituri and North Kivu provinces likely to persist until further notice /update 17

Event

Authorities are likely to maintain the State of Siege in Ituri and North Kivu provinces until further notice. The declaration was extended April 4; it has been in place since May 2021. President Felix Tshisekedi has indicated that the State of Siege will only be lifted once security conditions in the two impacted provinces improve.

Under the State of Siege, civil courts are substituted by military courts, and governors and provincial assemblies are suspended; military governors and police vice-governors will take over responsibilities. The declaration allows for increased deployment of security personnel, monitoring and censorship of communications, restrictions on movement, and additional powers to conduct searches, establish checkpoints, and arrest and imprison those suspected of having intentions to harm national security.

Violence attributed to various armed groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and M23 rebels, has persisted despite the implementation of restrictive measures.

An increased security posture is almost certain in both provinces until the current spate of violence abates. Security forces may establish checkpoints and roadblocks, likely prompting associated ground transport disruptions in the two provinces. The implementation of curfews remains possible. Further bouts of violence are almost certain to continue. Authorities could also extend measures to neighboring restive regions.

Advice

If operating in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, heed the directives of the authorities. Contact local officials before departing large cities by ground. Travel in convoy and only during daylight hours. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Exercise a high level of personal security awareness and caution in the impact region.