UN Report Reveals Atrocities by Army-Linked Fighters in Central African Republic
The UN has condemned armed groups, including Wagner Ti Azande, for raping and murdering civilians in the Central African Republic. The attacks primarily targeted Muslim communities, leading to at least 24 deaths. Accountability and clarification of military ties are vital for preventing future violations amidst ongoing humanitarian crises.
The United Nations has condemned armed groups, notably one associated with the military, for committing grave atrocities against civilians in the Central African Republic (CAR) during recent attacks. A report released on Wednesday indicated that these attacks occurred in October and January, targeting community members, particularly from Muslim backgrounds. The Wagner Ti Azande (WTA), a group with links to the national army, was identified as a key perpetrator, alongside its predecessor, the Azande Ani Kpi Gbe (AAKG).
The report highlighted the tragic deaths of at least 24 individuals, with some victims subjected to horrific methods, such as being bound and thrown into rivers. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stressed the importance of accountability saying, “These horrible crimes must not go unpunished. Accountability is fundamental to ensure such violations never happen again.”
The WTA group, which emerged in February 2023 amidst violence from the Fulani rebel group Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC), is known for its engagement in serious human rights violations. These include summary executions, gang rapes, torture, forced labor, and extensive looting. It was indicated that the WTA’s affiliation with the army has connections to training provided by the Russian paramilitary group Wagner.
Targeted specifically were Muslim populations and Sudanese asylum seekers, who were believed to be sympathetic to the UPC. In response to the violence, CAR authorities reported the arrest of 14 suspects connected to these attacks. Despite the ongoing conflict, the situation in CAR remains dire, with a significant portion of the population affected by violence, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises.
The recent UN report on the Central African Republic sheds light on serious human rights abuses executed by armed groups linked to the military, particularly the Wagner Ti Azande. The atrocities committed against vulnerable communities underscore the need for accountability and investigation into military affiliations to prevent recurrence. The humanitarian situation remains critical, with millions impacted by longstanding violence and instability in the region.
Original Source: www.newindianexpress.com
