China has vehemently condemned a militia attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that resulted in the deaths of several Chinese nationals, calling for swift justice against the perpetrators, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday.
The deadly assault took place on Wednesday at a mining site in the gold-rich northeastern province of Ituri. The attack targeted a Chinese-funded private enterprise, leading to the tragic death of four Chinese nationals, with several others reported missing. This information was confirmed by media sources and the Foreign Ministry.
Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed the incident during a regular press briefing, noting China’s demand for the DRC authorities to apprehend and punish those responsible for the attack promptly. “We urge the DRC to pursue and punish the perpetrators in accordance with the law as soon as possible,” Mao stated. She also called for enhanced security measures to protect Chinese citizens and enterprises operating in high-risk areas of the DRC. “Those already in high-risk areas should be evacuated as soon as possible,” she added.
The northeastern region of the DRC has long been plagued by security issues, largely due to ongoing conflicts driven by competition for control over its abundant mineral resources. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has previously issued multiple security warnings regarding this volatile area.
China is actively coordinating with DRC authorities to locate and ensure the safety of the missing Chinese nationals.
This attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents linked to the region’s mineral wealth, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by those working in these lucrative but perilous environments.
Melissa Enoch
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