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UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, is shocked by the latest in a series of brutal attacks on forcibly displaced persons in the Democratic Republic of Congo by non-state armed groups. These brutal acts of violence have resulted in the loss of innocent lives and the mass displacement of vulnerable individuals and families.
In the most recent attack, which took place on June 12 in the displaced people’s town of Lala in Ituri province, armed assailants targeted civilians, leaving a trail of destruction and destruction. The armed group carried out its assault with rifles and machetes, tragically killing at least 45 people, including children and women. At least 12 people were burned alive when their shelters were set on fire.
“UNHCR deeply regrets these appalling attacks against vulnerable civilian populations,” said Valentin Tapsoba, Director of UNHCR’s Regional Office for Southern Africa. “This cycle of violence must stop. We call for collective efforts to pacify the conflict in Ituri province so that the Congolese people can return to their homes and livelihoods and live in peace.”
Despite the volatile security situation, UNHCR and its humanitarian partners remain committed to providing life-saving aid and protection to affected populations. Response activities are underway to address the immediate needs of displaced persons, including shelter, food and psychosocial support for those traumatized during the attack.
The resurgence of violence in the region is of great concern and underlines the urgent need for sustained efforts to address the root causes of conflict and promote lasting peace and stability. UNHCR reiterates its call to all relevant actors to respect the civilian and humanitarian nature of displaced sites and to ensure the safety and well-being of displaced populations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
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