CAR: Violent clashes in Basse-Kotto November 15

Event

Violent clashes broke out on Thursday, November 15, between anti-balaka and Union for Peace in CAR (UPC) militants in the town of Alindao (Basse-Kotto). According to UN officials, at least 37 people died in a series of retaliatory attacks, while the violence reportedly prompted "thousands" to flee. Militants also destroyed dozens of buildings, including a church and tents in a camp for internally displace persons. Further clashes are possible in the coming days.

Context

The Central African Republic (CAR) has suffered recurrent bouts of civil conflict since December 2012, which has led to hundreds of deaths and almost 700,000 IDPs, and has pushed more than 500,000 people to seek refuge in neighboring Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Chad. Clashes between various armed groups continue to be reported on a regular basis despite the June 2017 signing of a ceasefire agreement between the CAR government and rebel groups present in the country.

Advice

Individuals present in CAR are advised to monitor local developments, maintain a high degree of situational awareness, and remain vigilant for potential militant activity.

In general, a number of Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the east and northeast of the country for various security reasons, including the presence of armed groups and ongoing conflicts.