Tragedy Strikes at Nyiragongo Volcano: Woman Killed During New Year’s Festivities
In a shocking turn of events, tragedy struck during the New Year’s festivities at the Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A woman was killed by an armed man in the evening of Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in the village of Buhombo, in the Munigi area of Nyiragongo.
According to local sources, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) were alerted by gunshots and quickly intervened to neutralize the assailant after a brief resistance. The assailant had fired several shots in an attempt to escape, leading to the tragic death of the woman.
Calls for Improved Security Measures
Thierry Gasisiro, the technical rapporteur of the civil society of Nyiragongo, expressed deep regret over the security breach that occurred on New Year’s Day, especially after authorities had assured the population of a peaceful celebration. He called for a review of the security system in 2025 to prevent such incidents in the future.
“We regret that this tragic incident occurred on January 1, 2025. The previous day, gunshots had also rung out, causing panic and fear among the population. Armed bandits took advantage of the situation to spread devastation. We urge the authorities to enhance the security system to ensure the safety of the population this year,” Gasisiro stated.
Rising Insecurity and Calls for Action
Furthermore, other incidents of insecurity were reported in the Nyiragongo area, particularly in the Rusayo region, where gunshots fired in a displaced persons camp gravely injured a person who is currently in critical condition.
“We condemn this escalating insecurity and urge the competent authorities to take all necessary measures to address it. It is imperative to control the circulation of weapons and ammunition and strengthen the management of armed individuals,” added Mr. Gasisiro.
Additional Violence in Goma
Additionally, a lifeless body was discovered on the morning of January 1 in the Himbi neighborhood of Goma, near the North Kivu provincial police station. Another woman was shot and injured in the Mugunga area during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. These incidents, marked by gunshots instead of fireworks, have sparked outrage among many human rights defenders who denounce a lax management of ammunition.
In the wake of these tragic events, the community is left grappling with the need for increased security measures and a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals in the region.
Jonathan Kombi, Goma