CAR: Insecurity likely to persist in western regions through mid-January following multiple armed attacks Dec. 6-20

Event

Insecurity is likely to persist in the Central African Republic (CAR) through at least mid-January following multiple armed attacks in the west of the country. On Dec. 15, suspected members of the 3R (Return, Reclamation, Rehabilitation) rebel group clashed with armed forces in Mann, Ouham Pende Region. Five civilians and a soldier were killed in the fighting. The incident occurred after reports of another attack in the locality of Boyo, Ouaka Region, which left up to 15 civilians dead, Dec. 6-7. At least 1,500 people were forced to flee the area following the incident. The Christian anti-Balaka militia is suspected of being behind the attack.

Insecurity is likely to manifest in regular rebel attacks in the west of the country. A heightened security presence is almost certain in the region, which will probably trigger further clashes between government forces and rebel groups.

Advice

Avoid travel at night and undertake all travel outside of urban centers in convoy and following a full security review of the route. Liaise with trusted sources on the status of routes before departure. Maintain regular contact with diplomatic representatives.

Resources

Despite an Oct. 15 unilateral ceasefire announcement by President Faustin-Archange Touadera, rebels continue to pose a threat throughout the country. In late 2020, 3R joined other rebel groups in forming the Coalition of Patriots for Change (Coalition des patriotes pour le changement, CPC), an umbrella group of rebel organizations that together control much of the country's territory. The CPC was created ahead of the December 2020 presidential elections with the aim of destabilizing the government and has been accused of human rights abuses; it poses a major threat to civilians in its area of operations.