News / Thoughts

26 people and a pastor killed

Some 26 people have been reported killed during an outbreak of violence in Central African Republic (CAR). A local pastor was among the victims as predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels attacked communities around the town of Kaga Bandoro, 350 km north of the Central African Republic capital, Bangui.

The pastor, whose name is not known at this stage, was one of some 26 people killed in the village of Ndomete, as the armed rebels went door-to-door in the early hours of 16 September. Locals told Open Doors the rebels also looted a Catholic Church some 20km from Kaga Bandoro and several other properties, including NGO properties.

Dozens of people fled the village, others sought refuge at a UN Peacekeepers’ base (MINUSCA).

“People have run to the bush and to the MINUSCA base for safety as the attackers are still everywhere,” reported local workers.

MINUSCA said troops had been deployed to prevent further violence but according to local media, the Seleka rebels are still present in Ndomete and other communities.

Source: Open Doors; World Watch Monitor

Pray now…

• For peace to be restored and that the Lord would comfort families of the murdered pastor and all other victims.
• That the peacekeepers would be able to quell the violence.
• That the government will be able to bring order and that moves would be made towards disarmament of the various factions.