The government of the Central African Republic (CAR) has launched an official investigation into a deadly attack carried out by armed militants from the “Return, Reclamation, and Rehabilitation” (3R) movement in the northwest of the country, which resulted in the deaths of at least 10 civilians.
Government spokesperson and Minister of Communications, Maxime Balalou, strongly condemned the assault, labeling it a “barbaric” act of violence. In a statement published by local media, he vowed that those responsible, along with their supporters, would be apprehended and brought to justice.
Details of the Attack
The assault took place in the early hours of Tuesday, targeting the village of Nzoro, near the town of Ngaoundaye in Lim-Pendé province. According to a military source who spoke on condition of anonymity, all the victims were civilians. The attackers also set fire to multiple homes and shops, causing widespread destruction in the village.
“The investigation has already begun on the ground,” Balalou stated, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate continued attacks on innocent civilians. “We cannot allow the systematic killing of people who simply wish to live in peace to go unpunished,” he added.
Government’s Response
Balalou stressed that power should only be attained through democratic means, not through armed violence against civilians. “If the 3R movement seeks political power, it must do so through legitimate democratic processes, not by terrorizing peaceful citizens,” he asserted.
He further warned that justice would prevail, stating, “Those responsible for this attack will be held accountable before the courts, whether sooner or later.”
Background on the 3R Movement
The “Return, Reclamation, and Rehabilitation” (3R) movement is an armed group that opposes the current government in the Central African Republic. It was founded in 2015 and is predominantly composed of fighters from the Fulani ethnic group. The group has been active in the western regions of the country and has been accused of committing various human rights violations in recent years.
The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in the Central African Republic, where armed groups continue to pose threats to stability despite government efforts to restore peace.
