US embassy cable - 05KINSHASA1115

C O N F I D E N T I A L KINSHASA 001115 
 
SIPDIS 
 
E.O. 12958: DECL: 07/07/2015 
TAGS: PGOV, PHUM, KPKO, ASEC, CASC, CG 
SUBJECT: SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL ARRESTED IN NORTH KIVU 
 
Classified By: Polcouns Mel Sanderson for Reasons 1.4 B and D 
 
1. (U) SUMMARY: Eighth Military Region Chief of Staff (COS), 
and four bodyguards were arrested and brought before a 
military court in Goma following a shoot-out on July 1 that 
killed seven people. END SUMMARY. 
 
2. (SBU) Col. Christopher Bindu (a Mai Mai) and four of his 
armed guards were arrested and brought before a military 
court on July 2 in response to a July 1 shoot-out in Goma 
that killed seven people, including four children. According 
to Gen. Amisi, the 8th Military Region Commander, the 
children were caught in the crossfire when shrapnel hit their 
home. Radio Okapi reported on July 5 that Bindu and his 
guards would most likely be subject to a public hearing as 
part of an aggressive campaign by Minister of Defense 
Onusumba to encourage military discipline. 
 
3. (C) The fighting erupted after Bindu's guards apprehended 
and disarmed a group of military police patrolling near the 
COS's residence, MONUC sources said. Following orders from a 
drunken Bindu, the guards shot and killed an officer who 
moved after being instructed to stay still. The MPs and 
Bindu's men exchanged heavy fire until General Amisi and the 
MP commander arrived at the scene. 
 
4. (C) Comment: Tensions remain high in North Kivu where 
residents, including Mai Mai, are still distrustful of 
members of the RCD-G and its former military wing, the ex-ANC 
who are perceived as Rwandan allies. Bindu's arrest is of 
symbolic value as it reflects a crack-down on impunity within 
the Congolese armed forces. At the same time, the MPs were 
not innocent bystanders, and should also be held accountable 
for their actions. End Comment. 
 
MEECE