May 2017 Bangassou clashes

During May 2017, a series of clashes occurred in the Central African Republic town of Bangassou between Anti-balaka militias and MINUSCA forces.

May 2017 Bangassou clashes
Part of the Central African Republic Civil War
Date 13 – 15 May 2017 Location Bangassou, Mbomou, Central African Republic 4°44′N 23°49′E Result MINUSCA victory
Belligerents
MINUSCA	Anti-balaka
Commanders and leaders
	Kevin Bere Bere Romaric Mandago Crépin Wakanam Patrick Gbiako Yembeline Mbenguia Alpha
Strength
	600–700
Casualties and losses
1 killed, 25 injured	Unknown
115+ people killed 3,000 people displaced
Bangassou Location within Central African Republic

History

On 13 May 2017 around 600 to 700 Anti-balaka fighters entered Bangassou attacking MINUSCA base and Muslim Tokoyo neighborhood. They started pillaging city and attacking Muslim residents. More than 3,000 people escaped their homes seeking refugee in a hospital, cathedral and mosque. Anti-balaka besieged mosque sheltering more than 1,000 people. On 15 May MINUSCA forces managed to recapture key points in the city freeing hostages from mosque.[1] In the following days more than 115 bodies were found in the city.[2]

Responsibility

On 7 February 2020, two and a half year after Bangassou clashes five Anti-Balaka commanders and 23 militiamen were sentenced for years in prison. They were found guilty of criminal conspiracy, illegal possession of firearms and murder.[3]

References

1. "CAR: Tensions high in southeastern city of Bangassou (Mbomou prefecture)". 16 May 2017.
2. "Red Cross: 115 bodies found in CAR's Bangassou". 17 May 2017.
3. "The Central African justice system strongly condemns those responsible for the Bangassou massacre". 19 February 2020.