Deadly Ambush in Central African Republic Leaves 10 Dead
A brutal attack on motorcycle taxi drivers and passengers in the Central African Republic has left 10 people dead and the town of Bria on high alert. The victims were ambushed by unidentified gunmen while returning from a religious ceremony in Ippy. The attackers burned the motorcycles, leaving the city tense and fearful.
The incident occurred near Bria, a diamond-mining town that has been a hotspot for clashes between government forces and the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC), an anti-government group. The CPC has been involved in a long-standing conflict with the government, which has been exacerbated by the presence of Russian Wagner mercenaries.
The Central African Republic has been embroiled in conflict since 2013, following a coup by predominantly Muslim rebels. A 2019 peace deal failed to bring lasting stability, as multiple armed groups, including the CPC, resumed fighting. The conflict has been marked by human rights abuses, including those allegedly committed by Wagner mercenaries, who have been supporting President Faustin-Archange Touadéra's regime since 2020.
The town of Bria is also affected by the 2003 Kimberley Process ban on "blood diamond" exports, which has had a devastating impact on the local economy.
Local forces, with the help of Wagner mercenaries, are now conducting operations in response to the attack. The situation remains tense, with many fearing further violence and instability in the region.
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