By Paschal Norbert
KINSHASA, MARCH 25, 2025 (CISA) – A violent attack on the Missionary Sisters of Santo Domingo has sparked outrage in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa , strongly condemning the act and urging religious communities to remain vigilant.
On the night of March 18, a gang of armed assailants, known locally as Kuluna, stormed the residence of the Missionary Sisters of Santo Domingo in the SECOMAF district of Kimbanseke, Kinshasa. The attackers, wielding machetes, broke through the compound’s wall, terrorized the sisters, and looted valuables, including money, phones, and computers.
In response, the Catholic Archdiocese of Kinshasa issued a statement expressing deep indignation over the attack. Fr Clet-Clay Mamvemba, Chancellor of the Archdiocese, conveyed the sentiments of Cardinal Ambongo, who extended his solidarity to the sisters and called on religious communities to enhance security without succumbing to fear.
“The Cardinal expressed his closeness to the Sisters who were victims of this barbarity and encouraged them to stand firm, allowing themselves to be guided by the light of hope,” read the statement. He also urged various congregations to “redouble their vigilance” while maintaining faith and resilience.
A formal complaint has been filed with the police, and the judicial vicar visited the crime scene to assess the situation. This attack highlights the ongoing security crisis in Kinshasa, where criminal gangs frequently target both civilians and religious institutions.
The DRC government has intensified efforts to curb gang violence, conducting raids that have led to hundreds of arrests. However, the persistence of such attacks underscores the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect religious communities and vulnerable groups.
As the Lenten season continues, Cardinal Ambongo called upon the faithful to remain steadfast in their faith while praying for peace and justice.
