in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo – Wednesday, August 16, 2023. An infernal blaze engulfed the Lufungula military camp in the Lingwala district, raising concerns about the dangers of overcrowding and possible mafia involvement in these devastating fires.
The flames reduced several illegally occupied annexes near the camp to ashes. These unfortunate events were caused by fraudulent electrical connections. Fortunately, no loss of life was reported to the Kilalopress newsroom.
The Lufungula camp, which houses police officers and their families, has become a hotbed of tensions related to overcrowding. Earlier this year, these frictions came to light when an evacuation operation was launched to make space for the construction of a morgue near the Central Referral Hospital of the Congolese National Police, located in the same camp. The authorities faced fierce resistance from the residents, exacerbating the already palpable tensions.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time the Lufungula camp has been struck by devastating fires. In June 2008, a similar fire broke out, reducing four houses and all their belongings to ashes. Although no casualties were reported, it left deep scars in the hearts of the residents who lost everything in an instant. Interestingly, the occupants of these houses were all absent, participating in the June 30 festivities in Kananga. The circumstances surrounding this fire raise troubling questions about possible mafia involvement.
It is high time to address this explosive situation. The recurring fires that ravage the Lufungula camp are more than mere accidents. They are a direct result of endemic overcrowding and criminal acts. Fraudulent electrical connections have become commonplace, fueling the infernal flames that devour everything in their path. The inhabitants of this camp live in constant fear, knowing that their lives and belongings are constantly threatened by these destructive fires.
The issue of overcrowding cannot be ignored. The problems associated with restricted and overcrowded living spaces have become fertile ground for the proliferation of crime and corruption. The recent tensions during the evacuation operation have revealed the extent of the problem. The authorities must take urgent measures to resolve this crisis and ensure the safety of the residents.
Furthermore, it is imperative to investigate suspicions of mafia complicity in these fires. The circumstances surrounding the previous fires and the current events suggest a troubling pattern. Innocent residents are trapped in a criminal network that takes advantage of their vulnerability and desperation. It is time for justice to prevail and for those responsible to be held accountable for their involvement in these reprehensible acts.
According to some observers, “the devastating fires that occur there are more than mere accidents. They are the result of endemic overcrowding and mafia complicity.” The authorities must take immediate action to resolve this crisis and ensure the safety of the residents. Justice must also conduct a thorough investigation into suspicions of criminal complicity. It is time to end this tragedy and bring justice to those who have lost their homes and dignity in these destructive flames.
FERET-LUMBU- Gédéon from Kinshasa
