Brussels, 4 February, 2022/OACPS: On behalf of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), the Secretary-General, H.E. Mr Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, strongly condemns the militia attacks on civilians that led to the loss of livesand injuries on2 February 2022in Savo, Ituri Province. He conveys his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the people and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Secretary-General underlines that these attacks illustrate the seriousness of the threat posed by criminal groups to the security and stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the region.

H.E. Mr Chikoti reaffirms the OACPS’ commitment, alongside its international partners, to supportitsMembersin their efforts to address thesecurity challenges that threaten to reverse the progress made to achieve inclusive sustainable economic development.