By Patriot Corps
KINSHASA, DRC – Security forces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have successfully thwarted a potentially catastrophic coup d’état in the capital city of Kinshasa, as confirmed by Sylvain Ekenge, spokesperson for the Congolese defense and security forces.
The confrontation resulted in the loss of three suspected coup plotters and two police officers amidst intense clashes, sending shockwaves not only throughout the DRC but also resonating across neighboring nations including Angola, Burundi, Central African Republic (CAR), Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
“The army reassures that the situation is under control and asks Kinshasa residents to freely go about their business,” assured Ekenge, emphasizing the restoration of stability in the region.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunfire as early as 4:30 am on Sunday, originating near the residence of Vital Kamerhe, a prominent federal legislator and contender for the position of speaker of the National Assembly.
Fortunately, President Felix Tshisekedi was not at the targeted location during the coup attempt, as he was conducting official duties at the Cite de l’Union Africaine (City of the African Union), situated within the Ngaliema commune of the capital.
“The attackers, donning military attire and brandishing the Zaire flag, asserted in videos circulating on social media their intent to enact change in the governance of the republic,” revealed sources close to the incident.
It’s worth noting that the Democratic Republic of the Congo was formerly known as Zaire during the regime of Mobutu Sese Seko, spanning from 1971 to 1997.