SITREP 2: KINSHASA FIGHTING

C O N F I D E N T I A L KINSHASA 001317 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/21/2016 TAGS: PGOV ASEC CASC KPKO CG SUBJECT: SITREP 2: KINSHASA FIGHTING Classified By: PolOff CBrown, reasons 1.4 b/d. ¶1. (C) At approximately 5:15pm local time, the Ambassador called with an update of the situation from Vice President Bemba's residence (reftel). The Ambassador reported hearing occasional explosions, perhaps from rocket propelled grenades or tanks. MONUC forces sent to the Bemba compound had not arrive as of 5:45pm local time. Bemba reportedly told CIAT members with him at his residence that they "could not leave" the residence without him, because if they did so he would be left defenseless and would therefore have to defend himself. SRSG Swing has reportedly spoken with President Kabila twice, saying "all this needs to stop tonight." ¶2. (C) ARSO confirms via MONUC security personnel that APCs left MONUC around 5:20pm local time are currently en route to Bemba's residence. ¶3. (C) Staff and security forces at Vice President Azarias Ruberwa's compound have gone inside the buildings and have been ordered to stay inside. One member of Ruberwa's group, however, was reportedly shot after venturing out to investigate the situation. ¶4. (C) Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) Chief of Staff Lt. General Kisempia has reportedly been called in to take control of the situation. ¶5. (C) All AmCits are safe and accounted for to the best of Post's knowledge. The Embassy remains on lockdown until further notice. MEECE