Rights group highlights insecurity in Beni area

The main DRC human rights organisation, ASADHO, has described the level of insecurity in Beni as reminiscent of the "worst moments of indiscipline of the Forces armees zairoises (FAZ)" in the area. In a report, ASADHO said banditry reigned in Beni, and the presence of Ugandan troops had not put an end to Ugandan rebel activity. NALU rebels, fighting to overthrow President Yoweri Museveni, frequently attacked local villages in a bid to feed and equip themselves. In addition, soldiers wearing RCD or Ugandan uniforms were reported to be committing atrocities against the local population, and bands of armed gangs roamed the area "sowing terror", the report stated. "People go to bed each night fearing a visit during the night," it added. Ex-FAZ-FAC troops, who have not rallied to the RCD cause, also created insecurity by raiding and attacking villages, sometimes clashing with Ugandan or RCD soldiers.