On Saturday, the Congolese army revealed the arrest of several soldiers, including top-ranking officers over actions deemed dangerous to state security.
Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge told journalists in Kinshasa that the individuals are being held under strict legal conditions, with their movements and freedoms restricted as inquiries continue.
Ekenge confirmed that several generals and high-level officers are currently under house arrest for what he described as “deeply unacceptable acts” that jeopardize the stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“Their pre-trial detention has been prolonged at the request of the prosecution,” he added, underscoring the ongoing judicial process surrounding the sensitive case.
Officials noted that the National Human Rights Commission visited the detained officers after families raised concerns about their living conditions. According to Commission president Paul Nsapu, the officers are in stable health and are seen regularly by medical professionals.
These arrests come months after a July operation in which former army chief Lt. Gen. Christian Tshiwewe and several other officers were taken into custody for allegedly planning to topple the government.
Authorities have not released the exact number of soldiers detained, keeping a tight lid on details due to the case’s sensitive nature while investigations move forward.
Observers say these actions highlight simmering tensions within the military and the government’s drive to prevent potential threats against President Felix Tshisekedi’s leadership.
Ekenge stressed that all procedures are being carried out within the law, describing the arrests as part of a lawful and disciplined push to safeguard national stability.
