Lubumbashi, Haut-Katanga – A Chinese businessman was recently arrested in a casino in Lubumbashi, in possession of two firearms and counterfeit dollars. This arrest is part of a series of operations conducted by the Congolese National Police (PNC) to combat the growing insecurity in the region.

The provincial police commissioner, Blaise Kilimbalimba, announced this arrest during a press conference where he also presented four criminal groups dismantled by law enforcement. According to Kilimbalimba, these groups are responsible for various criminal acts, including armed robbery and extortion on the roads leading to Zambia.

Among these gangs, three are active in Lubumbashi, while a fourth operates mainly along the roadways to Kasumbalesa and Sakania. This information was corroborated by Colonel Khalayzi Jeannot Makanda, who leads the anti-banditry brigade. He emphasized that operations will be intensified to address the increase in criminal activities.

The security situation in Lubumbashi raises concerns among residents. Reports indicate a rise in burglaries, often perpetrated by armed individuals posing as law enforcement officers. Previous articles from JOURNAL.AFRICA have discussed this climate of insecurity that weighs on the daily lives of Lubumbashi residents.

In November 2023, another police operation led to the arrest of 39 suspected armed bandits, some linked to the murder of a local security agent. These actions aim not only to restore order but also to rebuild citizens' trust in their security forces.

Local authorities are also calling on the central government to strengthen resources allocated to the police forces to better address this security crisis. The Center for Human Rights and Development (CRDHD) has recently advocated for the government to take more concrete measures to equip the police with adequate materials.

As the PNC continues its efforts to dismantle criminal networks, residents remain vigilant and hope for a swift return to a stable security situation.