Eight Suspects Presented to Authorities After Deadly Customary Conflict

Bagata, Kwilu January 20, 2026 -- Eight suspects accused of murder and arson that destroyed 34 houses in the village of Lunkuni, located in the Manzasay sector of Bagata territory, were presented to the Governor of Kwilu by the police on Tuesday. They were arrested in connection with a customary conflict that led to the assassination of the chief of the Bamenga Lokwa group on January 5 in Lunkuni. In addition to the local chief, three other deaths were reported on January 7, including two people who were beheaded. Police also handed over several 12-gauge shotguns recovered from the suspects. Two weeks after the violence, a large portion of the population remains displaced, hiding in the forest. Authorities confirmed the deployment of the Northern Mobile Intervention Group to stabilize the area and facilitate the return of residents to their homes. “This was a poorly managed customary conflict that resulted in the assassination of Chief Bamenga. In retaliation, the deceased’s brothers burned down 34 houses. Police were immediately deployed to restore public order. Many residents have not yet returned home and remain in the bush. A special intervention unit is being sent to enable their safe return,” stated Chief Commissioner Camille Atungale, police spokesperson. Authorities also indicated that additional bodies may not yet have been recovered due to ongoing tensions between rival families competing for customary authority.