Clashes between the police and troops on the one hand and members of a local militia on the other from Friday to Monday left “13 dead and 14 injured among security forces” and “18 dead” militia fighters. / Reuters photo.
Kinshasa: At least 31 people died in clashes between tribal militia and security forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo at the weekend, officials said.
They said the violence in the central Kasai province was sparked by a row between an uncle and a nephew over the title of a traditional chief, the (BBC) reported.
Deputy Governor Hubert Mbingho N'Vula said 13 members of the security forces sent to quell the fighting were among those killed.
Eighteen militiamen also died, he said.
N'Vula said public order had been restored in and around the city of Tshikapa in the remote province.
DR Congo is beset by sporadic violence between ethnic militias.
This has been enflamed further by the postponing of a presidential election due to be held before the end of the year.
