Congo militia leader, 100 fighters surrender to authorities
KINSHASA, Congo – The governor of Congo’s Haute-Katanga province says a warlord and militia leader who escaped prison has surrendered along with 100 of his fighters.
Governor Jean-Claude Kazembe said Wednesday that Gedeon Kyungu Mutanga and the fighters turned themselves in to authorities in Malambwe, a locality about 70 kilometres (43 miles) from Lubumbashi.
He says the surrender is a result of long negotiations to put an end to insecurity in the area. He says they will enter the government’s demobilization and rehabilitation program.
A local rights group has said criminal charges should not be dropped against Mutanga, and criticized any amnesty the militia leader might receive for the deal.
Mutanga was arrested in 2005 and sentenced to death. He escaped prison in 2011.
News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.