3 Killed in Mortar Explosion at Displacement Camp in DR Congo

Three young people were killed in an explosion caused by an old mortar shell near a displacement camp in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Thursday, has sparked panic among displaced residents in the camp, many of whom now fear for their safety.

One woman living in the camp expressed her concern for her children's safety, stating, "We are not safe with bombs exploding near us."

The camp director, Mungwiku René, called on the Congolese authorities to take immediate action to protect the displaced people, stressing the urgent need for better security.

The explosion was caused by a 120mm mortar shell, according to the Congolese army. Colonel Njike Kaiko, the spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo in North Kivu, urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid handling any unidentified metal objects.

He also advised locals to report any suspicious items to the country's defense and security forces.

This is not the first time such an incident has occurred. In May, at least ten displaced individuals were killed in the same region by a mortar shell fired by M23 rebels, as confirmed by Congolese authorities.