Shocking Developments: Congo Plans to Execute 70 More After 102 Already Killed

Congo’s Stern Measures Against Crime: 172 Urban Bandits Face Execution

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has executed 102 individuals identified as “urban bandits,” locally known as Kulunas, with 70 more scheduled for execution. These men, aged 18 to 35, were convicted of armed robbery and other crimes.

The executions took place at Angenga prison in northwest Congo, with 45 individuals executed in late December and the remaining 57 within the past 48 hours.

The government’s decision to reinstate the death penalty, which had been dormant since 2003, has sparked controversy.

Supporters view it as a necessary measure to combat urban crime and restore security, while human rights activists express concerns about potential abuses and the lack of due process.

Espoir Muhinuka, a human rights activist, warned of the possibility of extrajudicial executions and called for strict adherence to judicial procedures and fundamental guarantees.

The DRC abolished the death penalty in 1981 but reinstated it in 2006. The recent executions mark a significant shift in the country’s approach to capital punishment.