Motorcyclists Vandalize Ebola Response Vehicles in Eastern Congo

A group of young people, predominantly motorcyclists, vandalized vehicles used for the Ebola response and a health structure in Kandoy, Aru territory, Ituri province. The incident occurred Monday evening, resulting in an injured driver and significant material damage.

The unrest appears to stem from community resistance to two suspected cases of Ebola virus disease. While authorities have notified the cases, some community members reportedly contest the diagnosis. The convoy that was attacked was en route to Kandoy to collect a mother and her infant, both flagged as suspected cases, for transfer to Aru-center for medical care.

The mother of the infant had reportedly died recently in Mongwalu under circumstances suspected to be related to Ebola, though the two current cases remain unconfirmed. The attack damaged several vehicle windows and doors, and the health structure sustained damage. A relative calm has returned to Kandoy, but several patients fled the facility during the violence. Local motorcycle taxi traffic remains paralyzed, disrupting transportation and potentially hindering further response efforts.

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Investigations are ongoing to establish responsibilities.