United Nations Closes Military Base In DR Congo

The United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, MONUSCO, has shut down its sub-military base in Bibokoboko in the Mutambala sector of Fizi territory in South Kivu, DR Congo.

The sub-base which was installed in Oct. 2012 following atrocities by militia groups in the region was shut down on Saturday, Jan. 8. 

According to UN sources, the decision was taken by the UN hierarchy following the deployment of the DR Congo national army in the zone.

“We have received this order from our hierarchy to close down the sub-base of Bibokoboko. We were there to facilitate the deployment by the Congolese government of soldiers and police in the locality to ensure the security of civilians after the attacks by armed groups and since they are already there they are expected to do their work of securing the civilian population,” a MONUSCO official based in Baraka revealed.

David Ngirumukiza, the traditional ruler of Bibokoboko village, confirmed the information but expressed fear over the security of his subjects in view of the recurrent activities of the armed militias.

“It is with regret that the people of Bibokoboko have learnt of the MONUSCO decision,” Ngirumukiza said.

“Meanwhile, this Sunday morning as the MONUSCO forces were packing their luggages, the Mai-Mai attacked Rulimba village from where they carted away cattle.”

“MONUSCO gave us hope, they secured the population against attacks by Mai-Mai. How can they leave us now at a time when the Mai-Mai are still here?”

In Oct. 2012, MONUSCO forces accompanied returning displaced persons by installing a sub-military base in Bibokoboko, one month after clashes opposing armed Mai-Mai and Twigwaneho groups in the middle plateau of Fizi where 10 villages were burnt down.