Red Cross reports violence against volunteers during Ebola epidemic in DRC

The International Red Cross Movement has raised alarms regarding an increase in violent attacks against its personnel during the ongoing Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As of August 23, the organization reported 11 violent incidents involving its volunteers, noting that these attacks significantly hinder efforts to combat the virus.

According to the organization, nine volunteers have been injured, ambulances have been damaged or burned, and essential intervention equipment has been destroyed. Recent attacks include an incident on August 19 in Beni, North Kivu, where three volunteers were assaulted, and an attack in Haut-Uélé where two volunteers were injured while attempting to conduct a secure burial in the Rungu health zone.

The epidemic is described as the deadliest the country has faced in 50 years. The response efforts are being further complicated by widespread mistrust and violence directed at humanitarian workers, healthcare teams, state health structures, and decontamination units.