Uvira on Edge: Armed Robberies Surge as Residents Urge Kabila’s FRN to Intervene
Minembwe Capital News (MCN)
Residents of Uvira continue to express growing concern over the deteriorating security situation following an armed robbery in the Nyamianda neighbourhood, where assailants reportedly stole several mobile phones and more than US$3,000 in cash.
The incident occurred on Monday, 19 October 2026, at approximately 7:45 p.m. in Nyamianda, in the town of Uvira, South Kivu Province, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to residents who spoke to Minembwe Capital News (MCN).
According to reports about the incident, six armed individuals stormed the home of Lwaboshi, a trader specialising in metal parts and equipment used for motorcycle repairs. The assailants reportedly stole several Android mobile phones and an estimated amount exceeding US$3,000.
No fatalities were reported in connection with the incident. However, the substantial value of the stolen property has further heightened concerns among residents about their personal safety and the security of their belongings.
Residents Call on Kabila’s FRN to Address Insecurity in Uvira
The attack comes amid persistent complaints from residents across several neighbourhoods in Uvira about an increase in armed robberies, looting and what they describe as inadequate security arrangements.
Some residents are calling on the Front pour la Refondation de la Nation (FRN), a politico-military movement led by Joseph Kabila, according to information provided by the movement, to take concrete measures to restore security and enable people to conduct their daily activities without fear.
Residents are also calling for investigations into allegations involving Burundian forces, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), Wazalendo groups, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), and mercenaries reportedly originating from Europe and Asia. They want the investigations to establish whether any of these actors have been involved in the acts of violence and looting reported in the region.
Some residents have specifically accused Burundian soldiers, members of Wazalendo groups and FARDC personnel of participating in robberies and looting targeting civilians. These allegations have not been independently verified and require thorough investigation by the competent authorities.
The information currently available about the Nyamianda robbery does not establish the identities of the perpetrators. No evidence has been presented linking those responsible to any of the forces or armed groups mentioned.
Residents Recall Security Conditions During M23 Control of Uvira
Amid continuing concerns over insecurity in Uvira, some residents told sources at Minembwe Capital News (MCN) that, during the few days when the M23 movement controlled the city following its capture late last year, certain neighbourhoods experienced what they described as a period of relative calm and security.
According to these residents, the conditions they experienced during that period differed from the insecurity they say they are facing today.
These accounts reflect the personal experiences and perceptions of the residents concerned. They illustrate how some people compare security conditions during different periods, particularly as concerns about armed robberies and the protection of civilians continue to grow.
For many residents, the immediate concern is whether they can continue their commercial activities, return home at night and sleep peacefully without fearing attacks by armed individuals.
Calls for Concrete Measures to Protect Residents
The robbery in Nyamianda underscores the need for stronger measures to protect civilians and their property, conduct thorough investigations into armed criminal activity, and bring those responsible to justice.
Residents are demanding practical action that will allow them to operate their businesses without disruption, go about their daily lives safely, and see a reduction in armed robberies, looting and other forms of criminal activity.
The central question remains whether the relevant security authorities will take effective measures to prevent further incidents, identify those responsible for the robbery at the Nyamianda trader’s home, and restore residents’ confidence in the protection of their lives and property.
As insecurity continues to worry the population, residents are looking for tangible results rather than assurances, hoping that those responsible for maintaining public order will act to make Uvira safer for everyone.
Minembwe Capital News (MCN)