CAR: UN warns of increasing violence in Bria

Event

The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) released a report on Monday, October 15, stating that at least 30 civilians have been killed in Bria (Haute-Kotto prefecture) during the months of August and September. According to reports, these casualties have been attributed to attacks by ex-Séléka militias (such as the Front populaire pour la renaissance en Centrafrique [FPRC]) and anti-balaka groups. Tensions remain high in the area and further clashes are possible.

Context

The Central African Republic (CAR) has suffered recurrent bouts of civil conflict since December 2012 which has led to hundreds of deaths, almost 700,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs), and 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 13 out of the 14 rebel groups present in the country.

Numerous Western governments have issued updated travel warnings in recent months due to the current worsening security situation. On April 10, France issued a warning advising its citizens to avoid all nonessential travel to the country. Also on April 10, the US issued a security alert urging their citizens to avoid the capital Bangui's PK5 neighborhood and 7th arrondissement. On April 12, the UK began advising against nonessential travel to central Bangui and against all travel to the rest of the country.

Advice

Individuals present in CAR, particularly in Bria, 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 most of the east of the country for various security reasons, including the presence of armed groups.