Rwanda: Violent clashes leave two injured in Karongi Feb. 20

Event

Violent clashes erupted between Congolese refugees and Rwandan security forces in a refugee camp in Karongi district on Tuesday, February 20. According to local sources, a crowd of approximately 2000 refugees protesting a cut in food rations clashed with Rwandan soldiers, who reportedly opened fire and injured at least two protesters.

Context

Congolese refugees are fleeing ethnic clashes between Hema herders and Lendu farmers in Ituri province. According to a local humanitarian source, approximately 200,000 people have been displaced since mid-December 2017. As of February 2018, over 174,000 refugees are present in Rwanda.

Advice

Individuals present in Karongi are advised to monitor the situation and remain vigilant.