By Ollus Ndomu
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo – The Congolese National Police (PNC) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have initiated joint patrols across Kinshasa in response to last Sunday’s failed coup attempt.
The heightened security measures commenced on the night of Tuesday, May 21, 2024, following a strategic security meeting between Commissioner General of Police Benjamin Alongaboni and the regional commander of FARDC. The collaboration aims to restore order and enhance the protection of citizens and their property in the capital city.
Security concerns have been paramount in Kinshasa, which has seen a rise in criminal activities perpetrated by junkies and juvenile delinquents. These individuals have exploited the lax enforcement by local authorities, leading to a surge in robberies and other crimes.
Kinshasa Provincial Police Commissioner Blaise Kilimbalimba officially launched the patrols with a dual objective: bolstering security in the wake of the failed coup and addressing long-standing issues such as sanitation, pirate markets, and noise pollution.
A few weeks earlier, the national Minister of the Interior had initiated the “Black Panther” operation, targeting delinquents known as “Kuluna” boys in an effort to curb crime and enhance public safety in Kinshasa.
On Sunday, May 19, Brigadier General Sylvain Ekenge, spokesperson for the armed forces, announced on national television (RTNC) that the nation had thwarted a coup attempt at the Palais de la Nation in Kinshasa. The plot was led by Christian Malanga, a former captain in the Congolese army, who was killed during the operation.
Malanga and his forces also attacked the residence of former Deputy Prime Minister Vital Kamerhe, a presidential candidate for the National Assembly, resulting in the deaths of two police officers guarding him.
The government has assured the public that comprehensive measures are being taken to reinforce the security of national institutions and officials.
These efforts include the ongoing joint patrols and increased vigilance across the city to prevent any recurrence of such incidents.
