Kwilu, DR Congo: Five Accused of Terrorism Stand Trial in Bulungu | Radio Okapi

A military court is holding a trial in the village of Kikoti, Bulungu territory, Kwilu province, for five individuals accused of armed banditry and terrorism. The hearing, organized by the military garrison's audit office in Kikwit, commenced on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, aiming to address the persistent insecurity in the region.

Presiding over the trial is Captain Magistrate Bujitu Roc, with Sub-Lieutenant Magistrate Kasende Kas representing the public prosecutor. The accused are charged under Articles 157 and 158 of the Military Penal Code, which deal with terrorism. The defendants have been identified as Ngadima, also known as "Trezeguet"; Mubunda Jules; Mawenena Mitterand; Masumbuku Degaul; and Mputu Schadrac.

All five defendants appeared before the military court accompanied by their legal counsel. A significant development in the proceedings is the appearance of several victims who have formally joined the case as civil parties. These victims intend to assert their rights and seek reparations for the damages they claim to have sustained.

Following the identification of the accused and preliminary formalities, the court moved to examine the case file. The proceedings have been adjourned until Thursday, June 11, 2026. The next hearing will focus on continuing the investigation and hearing arguments from all parties involved. A judgment is anticipated after this stage of the legal process.