Violence in C.A.R.: 9 Dead, Homes Torched

BANGUI, Central African Republic — An attack in the northern part of the Central African Republic resulted in the tragic loss of nine lives, with over 700 homes reportedly set ablaze. This violent outbreak has left the local community in distress, as regional representatives scramble to comprehend the events and respond effectively.

The 3R militia, a self-styled defense group formed amid the nation’s civil war, took responsibility for the attack on Nzoroh village, attributing their actions to a conflict over stolen cattle. “The 3R are committed to defending marginalized herders,” stated Habib Yacoub, a fighter from the militia.

Despite this explanation, Nzoroh’s mayor, Bertrand Oudin Dimanche, expressed uncertainty over the attackers’ motives. Speaking over the phone, he accused the 3R of having no regard for human life, suggesting their actions were politically driven, and criticized the government for their perceived negligence and inaction in safeguarding the populace.

The central government has expressed its deep concern regarding these latest developments and pledged to release an official response imminently. However, detailed information on the number of injured individuals remains unavailable at this time.

In the immediate aftermath, the early morning raid plunged the residents into fear and chaos, prompting a mass exodus. Many villagers fled to neighboring communities, while others sought refuge in a nearby larger town, as reported by Jean Robert Ngbadin, a local Red Cross volunteer stationed in Ngaoundaye, close to the borders with Cameroon and Chad.

Regional authority Pierrette Benguere confirmed the severity of the incident and expressed hope that the government would take decisive measures to expel the rebels and address the worsening humanitarian situation.

The Central African Republic has been embroiled in conflict since 2013, triggered when predominantly Muslim rebels took control and ousted President François Bozizé. A peace accord struck in 2019 did manage to reduce hostilities somewhat; however, the fragile agreement has seen defections from several of the armed groups initially involved.

The Coalition of Patriots for Change, which includes the 3R, emerged in 2020 following the faltering peace accord. The Central African Republic, despite its rich mineral resources such as gold and diamonds, remains one of the world’s poorest nations. Rebel factions continue to operate with relative freedom, impeding mining efforts by international enterprises.

Since 2016, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has led the country, with support from Russia-aligned Wagner operatives who vowed to combat the rebels and bring stability. Nonetheless, these forces have faced allegations of human rights abuses and claims of bolstering the military government rather than facilitating peace.