Baraka: Civil Society Calls for the Removal of FARDC “Hiboux” Troops Following Serious Allegations
Civil society organizations and community movements operating in the city of Baraka, South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have intensified calls for the immediate withdrawal of FARDC soldiers belonging to the unit known as “Hiboux,” following serious allegations of looting, sexual violence, and widespread intimidation against civilians.
The demands were made after a meeting that brought together civil society groups, youth movements, and community representatives from Baraka, during which participants openly accused the military unit of being responsible for the growing insecurity affecting the city and its surrounding areas.
Residents say that instead of protecting civilians, the soldiers have become a major threat to their daily lives and security. According to civil society leaders, some soldiers from the unit are accused of entering civilians’ homes and looting food, money, mobile phones, and other valuable property while using threats and weapons to intimidate residents.
Reports also indicate that some civilians were beaten and harassed simply for refusing to hand over the items demanded by the soldiers. Traders in Baraka say the acts of theft and looting allegedly committed by these soldiers have forced many business owners to scale back or suspend their commercial activities due to fear of robbery and violence.
Residents further report that several women and girls have accused certain soldiers from the unit of sexual abuse, allegations that have sparked fear and outrage among the local population. These accusations of sexual violence are being viewed as a serious indication of the deteriorating security situation in this part of South Kivu.
In a statement released after the meeting, Baraka civil society organizations called on the military authorities of the DRC to immediately remove the “Hiboux” unit from the area and deploy other troops that respect human rights and protect civilians instead of abusing them.
The organizations stated that the people of Baraka have lived in fear for a long time, with some residents now fleeing their homes at night to avoid being looted or attacked by armed men who are supposed to ensure their protection.
This situation adds to the broader concerns over insecurity in eastern DRC, where civilians have repeatedly accused some FARDC soldiers of misconduct, including looting, corruption, and abuse of power.
Analysts warn that such incidents could further erode public trust in the national army, especially at a time when the country continues to confront the AFC/M23 coalition in eastern Congo. They argue that restoring lasting security will require disciplined and professional troops who respect the law and protect civilians rather than turning them into victims of war and abuse.
So far, neither the FARDC leadership nor the Congolese government has officially commented on the allegations against the “Hiboux” unit. However, residents of Baraka insist they will continue to speak out until the soldiers are removed from the area and an independent investigation is conducted into all the accusations leveled against them.