Ituri: The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) of MONUSCO successfully destroyed several explosive remnants of war in the town of Bule, located in Djugu Territory, Ituri Province. The operation, conducted on August 18, aimed to eliminate direct threats to civilians and enhance community awareness about the dangers of mines and other explosive remnants.
According to African Press Organization, the explosive devices were discovered the previous week in Bule's commercial center by residents who were gradually returning to their homes after spending nearly nine months at a displacement site in Plaine Savo. MONUSCO peacekeepers promptly secured the area to prevent incidents while awaiting the arrival of demining specialists. On August 17, the UNMAS team from Bunia arrived at the site to safely destroy the devices.
The intervention addressed a significant threat to Bule's residents, who have been severely impacted by armed conflict. Explosive remnants scattered throughout the area pose a constant risk of devastating explosions. The action was welcomed by local residents, including businessman Etienne Mandje, who expressed gratitude for the removal of devices that had even lodged in the wall of a house.
According to local sources, additional explosive remnants may still be present in Bule, a town that has witnessed intense clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and armed groups in recent months. Traditional authorities and residents are calling for broader demining operations to ensure long-term safety for the community, which comprises over 50,000 people, and to facilitate the safe return of displaced populations. Local officials emphasize the necessity of comprehensive clearance to eliminate all remaining explosive threats.
In conjunction with the destruction of explosive devices, the UNMAS team conducted awareness sessions for the local population. Residents were educated on safe behaviors when encountering suspicious objects, stressing the importance of not touching or handling them and promptly alerting security services.
This preventive approach is crucial in a province where explosive remnants of war continue to threaten civilians. Reports of explosive devices are common in Djugu and Irumu territories, where armed violence has persisted for years. Demining operations and awareness campaigns conducted by MONUSCO and its partners are vital in protecting civilians and supporting stabilization efforts in Ituri Province.