Deadly Clashes in Panu: Nine Face Military Court over Terrorism Charges

February 15, 2026 - Nine individuals are facing prosecution following clashes between police and bandits in Panu, which left four dead and eight wounded. The case is being heard by the Kikwit Garrison Military Court, covering Kwilu, Kwango, and Maï-Ndombe, during a special session held in Idiofa. Eight civilians are charged with terrorism, while a police captain faces prosecution for failing to assist a person in danger, after allegedly filming his colleague’s beheading during the clashes. The eight injured police officers have filed civil suits, though no civilian victims have appeared in court. “We expect the court to convict all these alleged perpetrators of terrorism. We expect reparations for the acts committed because they injured, robbed, and vandalized the property of the police officers they killed,” said Toto Nkonde, part of the victims’ legal team. According to court proceedings, the confrontation erupted after police arrested three major gang leaders. In retaliation, young bandits mobilized, attacked police with stones, and attempted to expel them from the town. Despite warning shots, the clashes escalated before the bandits eventually surrendered. The case underscores the persistent insecurity in the region and the military court’s role in addressing terrorism and violent unrest.