Eight Sentenced to Death, Including Mayor, Two Acquitted

Panu February 16, 2026 - Idiofa, Kwilu Province - The Kikwit Garrison Military Court handed down eight death sentences, including that of Mayor Xénon Mufele of the semi-rural commune of Panu, following deadly clashes on February 3, 2026. Two other defendants were acquitted and released. The court found the eight convicted individuals guilty of terrorism, rejecting any mitigating circumstances. In addition to the death penalty, each must pay US$25,000 to the eight civil parties, including General Angel Yanbgonga, Deputy Divisional Commissioner of Police for Kwilu, who will receive US$5,000 from each convicted person. A further 100,000 Congolese francs per person must be paid within eight days to cover court costs. The clashes erupted early on February 3, after police arrested two suspected bandits, prompting gang members to seize them from custody. Four people, including two police officers, were killed during the violence. The military prosecutor had requested the death penalty for all defendants, while also calling for the acquittal of Kibala Chadrac, a request partially upheld by the court.