US Urges DR Congo to Grant Access to Detained Americans

In the aftermath of an alleged coup attempt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), the US Embassy has called on the country's authorities to provide details or allow access to three detained American citizens.

Greg Porter, spokesperson for the US Embassy, stated in an email reported by ABC News on Monday, "We have requested that the authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo provide the detainees with the opportunity to contact their consulate. However, the Congolese authorities have not responded immediately and have indicated that further details will be disclosed at a later time."

The Congolese army had previously disclosed the names of three Americans accused of involvement in an attack led by political opposition leader Christian Malanja targeting a presidential palace last May.

Meanwhile, the US Department of State has emphasized that one of its top priorities is to provide consular assistance to detainees abroad, including organizing regular visits to ensure access to healthcare and assistance in providing English-speaking legal counsel.

This development comes amid heightened tensions in the DR Congo following the alleged coup attempt and underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts to ensure the rights and well-being of detained individuals, irrespective of their nationality.