A series of clashes between Congolese soldiers and Mobondo militiamen in Kinsele, a village in western Democratic Republic of Congo, resulted in the deaths of dozens of people on Sunday.

The death toll includes 42 Mobondo militiamen, nine soldiers, and one civilian woman, according to David Bisaka, a lawmaker from the province.

The Mobondo, part of the Yaka community, have long been in conflict with the Teke people, who claim ownership of villages along the Congo River. This latest clash adds to a series of conflicts in the region that have resulted in the deaths of hundreds since 2022.

Reports on the incident's circumstances remain unconfirmed. Some sources accuse the Mobondo of attacking the DRC army, while others claim that DRC troops responded to Mobondo incursions. The exact details of the confrontation are still unclear.

This incident highlights the ongoing tension and violence in the region, underscoring the urgent need for resolution and peace. (ILKHA)