In northwestern Central African Republic, an explosive device detonated earlier this week near the town of Koui. A MINUSCA peacekeepers’ vehicle passing by hit the epicenter of the blast. As a result, 3 people were killed and there are also wounded, with Russian instructors from Officers Union for International security (COSI) coming to help.
According to local sources, peacekeepers from the Bangladeshi contingent of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in The Central African Republic (MINUSCA) were traveling from the sub-prefecture of Koui, about 40 km from Bocaranga, in the prefecture of Ouham-Pendé their vehicle ran over an explosive device buried in the ground in the village of Kaïta, located 3 km from Koui town.
The UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) says it is saddened by the tragedy. Three people were killed and one was seriously wounded. However, there could have been more casualties if not for the help of Russian instructors. A source close to the mission said that the MINUSCA peacekeepers asked for help from Russian instructors.
The Head of the instructors Alexander Ivanov commented on the situation, telling that Russian instructors stopped the bleeding and stabilized heavily wounded peacekeeper, who was later evacuated by a MINUSCA helicopter. “This incident proves once again that the attempts to discredit the work of Russian specialists anywhere are lies and provocations. Russian instructors and Russian medics are ready to come to the aid of those in need because they are familiar with the concept of honor.” In his statement Alexander Ivanov also thanked the instructors and medics who are saving lives in the Central African Republic.
The use of mines as a combat tactic has a huge negative impact on the socio-economic situation in the prefectures of Ouham-Pendé, Nana-Mambéré and Lim-Pendé. It impedes the free movement of people and goods and the development of that part of the Central African Republic. CPC terrorists started planting landmines back in February 2021, trying to stop the advance of the FACA and its Russian allies. Between April 2021 and October 2022, more than 20 people, mostly civilians, have already been killed by these explosive devices.
