North Kivu: resumption of joint patrols between United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and Congolese security forces – African Business

After being suspended in July following violent protests at Goma’s city center, joint patrols by MONUSCO-Congolese security forces were resumed in Goma city and its outskirts.

This operation was planned around ten days ago in Goma, in Goma’s north area upto Munigi (Nyiragongo territorial territory) and in Goma’s west up to Sake, Masisi territory). These security operations are led both by the FARDC and the PNC members of the Congolese National Police.

The North Kivu population is reassured by the joint patrols. They serve three purposes: to protect Goma city and its environs in the current conflict context, to guarantee civilian freedom and to quickly intervene in an attack. They also aim at keeping armed groups out of the main roads sections.

During patrols last week, FARDC’s patrol commander and the Heads of Sections of Force Headquarters interacted with local residents. These discussions were meant to raise awareness about the importance and safety of this road to both the refugees in camps and the villages along RN2. “MONUSCO is working jointly with FARDC in order to secure this part of the RN2 and thus allow freedom of movement to all, including the Force and the population”, Major Francis Arseneault is the head of one MONUSCO section.

“The revived patrols, disrupted since the July 25 and 26 events in Goma, are apparently welcomed by both the urban and rural populations,” said Abdellah Guennouz, chief of the UNPOL sector for MONUSCO/Goma, who recently participated in two patrols a few days ago: one in the city of Goma and the other on the RN2 road leading to Kibumba.

The population considers this cooperation satisfactory. After the passing of one of the patrols, one passer-by said: “Personally, I am ready to welcome joint patrols between MONUSCO and the Congolese security forces. However, I’m not sure everyone feels the same way in the North Kivu province. Your patrols will secure the town knowing that the M 23 troops can be found nearby. We need your help to keep the M23 from Goma. “.

The joint patrols take place three times per day. During each field trip, this mobile presence comprises between six and eight vehicles as well as about sixty elements. This patrol includes members from the PNC, MONUSCO Police (UNPOL), SENFPU and the Formed Police Unit (Senegal).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).