A UN report alleges armed groups, including Wagner Ti Azande linked to the military, committed atrocities in Central African Republic, targeting Muslim communities and resulting in at least 24 civilian deaths. The report calls for accountability and clarifications regarding the military’s connections to these groups amidst ongoing violence in the region.
The United Nations has released a report accusing armed groups, including one affiliated with the national military, of committing severe violations against civilians in the Central African Republic (CAR). These incidents occurred during attacks in October and January, with the UN stating that the assaults were orchestrated by the Wagner Ti Azande (WTA) group, which has connections to the national army.
The WTA emerged from the Azande Ani Kpi Gbe (AAKG), which also played a role in these violent actions primarily targeting adults and children from Muslim communities, including refugees from Sudan. Investigations by the UN stabilization force revealed that at least 24 individuals were killed in brutal circumstances, such as being tied up and thrown into a river alive.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk emphasized the need for accountability, noting that “these horrible crimes must not go unpunished”. He urged clarification of the connections between the WTA and the national army to prevent future violations. The report indicated that the WTA, along with the AAKG, engaged in egregious acts, including summary executions and gang rapes.
Originally formed to protect the Zande community from the Fulani rebel group, the WTA has since become involved in atrocities against Muslim populations and Sudanese asylum seekers, allegedly because of their perceived alignment with the UPC. Following the attacks, CAR authorities identified 14 suspects who were arrested in Haut-Mbomou and the capital, Bangui.
Despite its rich resources, CAR remains one of the poorest nations globally, grappling with a history of coups and civil unrest since gaining independence in 1960. Violence continues to impact millions, with 2.8 million people affected last year. Currently, around 1.2 million Central Africans remain displaced, either as refugees or internally displaced persons, according to UN estimates.
In summary, the UN’s report highlights severe human rights violations committed by armed groups in the Central African Republic, specifically attributing many of these acts to the Wagner Ti Azande group linked to the national army. The findings emphasize the need for accountability and the cessation of violence against vulnerable populations, particularly within Muslim communities and refugee groups. Continued instability in CAR raises significant humanitarian concerns, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and protection of affected individuals.
Original Source: www.newindianexpress.com
