Russian Mercenaries Allegedly Kill Imam Of Markounda In Central African Republic
There is increasingly growing distrust of Russian mercenaries in the Central African Republic as allegations of impropriety against them continues.
Russian mercenaries of the Wagner Security company who assisted the Central African Republic national army, FACA, in recapturing Markounda, in Ouham-Fafa district on Monday April 19, have killed the Imam of the Markounda Central Mosque, Ahamat Anour.
Shortly after the arrival of the FACA forces with their Rwandan and Russian allies in Markounda, the Russian fighters reportedly went on a rampage, looting and carting away goods from shops while arbitrarily arresting owners.
Local sources said all this has always happened in the glare of the FACA troops who have “never raised a voice or finger to stop the harassment and theft” from nationals.
According to the family of Imam Ahamat, his murder took place at 1 p.m. CAT between Bodjomo and Boulo villages, towards the north of Markounda.
The Russians claim they mistook him for a rebel of the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) and shot him at point blank range.
A communique by Muslims of Markounda asked the pertinent question of “When will the Wagner mercenaries stop killing innocent people claiming they were CPC rebels?”
Imam Ahamat left behind nine children and two wives.
Markounda town situated in Ouham-Fafa district was recaptured from CPC rebels by FACA soldiers and their allies on Monday, April 19, during an offensive which lasted less than one hour.
Economic and administrative activities in the town have started picking up with shops reopening.
However, most of the population that had fled into the bushes or neighbouring villages are yet to return to their homes.
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