UN Peacekeepers Open Fire In DR Congo, Casualties Reported

The number of deaths and injuries remains unknown after peacekeepers opened fire at a border post in eastern Beni territory, the UN says.

The UN mission in Kasindi said in a statement on Sunday; “During this incident, soldiers from the intervention brigade of the MONUSCO force returning from leave opened fire at the border post for unexplained reasons and forced their way through.

“This serious incident caused loss of life and serious injuries.”

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the UN in the DR Congo, Bintou Keita, also said an investigation had begun and the suspected perpetrators arrested.

“Faced with this unspeakable and irresponsible behaviour, the perpetrators of the shooting were identified and arrested pending the conclusions of the investigation, which has already started in collaboration with the Congolese authorities."

She added that contact had been made with the country of origin of the soldiers so that legal proceedings can be initiated urgently.

The United Nations chief Antonio Guterres also said he was outraged by the incident and demanded accountability.

A UN statement said; "Guterres was saddened and dismayed to learn of the shooting by members of the peacekeeping unit."

Last week, deadly protests demanding the departure of the UN took place in several towns in eastern DRC.

A total of 19 people, including three peacekeepers were killed.