Muslim population in CAR held hostage by jihadists

FIDES REPORT: According to Bishop Nestor Nongo-Aziagbia SMA of Bossangoa the Muslim population of “Km 5” in Bangui is taken hostage by jihadist members that have infiltrated the capital of the Republic of Central Africa (CAR). “No one wants to talk about it, but it is a reality. Two days ago, the jihadists clashed with the French troops deployed in the Bangui Sangaris operation. The Muslim population in Bangui is taken hostage by jihadists. It is public knowledge that the Central Mosque of the city has become a powder keg, because the extremists have transformed it in their arsenal”, said the Bishop, one of two SMA bishops in the CAR.

“The jihadists come from other countries, particularly from Sudan and Chad and are supported by General Nouredine Adam, the number two of Seleka rebel coalition”. The area most affected by the violence committed by Seleka occurs in the diocese of Bossangoa.

“There is a situation of total chaos in my diocese”, said Bishop Nongo-Aziagbia, who on Easter eve had been seized by members of Seleka, while one of his priests had been killed on Good Friday (see Fides 24/04/2014). “The rebels continue to kill and plunder. Last weekend in a village on the border with Chad, 4 people were killed, among them 2 catechists. In Nanga Boguila the Doctor Sans Frontiers hospital was attacked, killing 16 people who were in a meeting. We are waiting for further details on this and other episodes of violence that occurred in other areas of the diocese”, concluded the Bishop. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 28/04/2014)

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