Two activists kidnapped in Zemio, tortured in Berengo, later jailed in Bangui

Two Central African activists, Antoine Zogonimbou and Mboliloungoule, endured a harrowing ordeal at the hands of Russian mercenaries before being transferred to gendarmerie cells in Bangui. Their abduction in Zemio, followed by brutal interrogation in Berengo, has sparked widespread concern about human rights violations in the region.

From abduction to detention: a timeline of events

The sequence of events unfolded rapidly. The two activists were forcibly taken from Zemio, a town in southeastern Central African Republic, and transported to Berengo, where they were subjected to severe physical and psychological torture. Reports indicate that their captors, identified as Russian mercenaries, employed extreme methods to extract confessions or information.

After days of torture, Zogonimbou and Mboliloungoule were eventually handed over to Central African authorities and placed in detention at the gendarmerie headquarters in Bangui. Their transfer to official custody followed intense international pressure and scrutiny over the mercenaries’ actions.

International reactions and ongoing investigations

The case has drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and foreign governments. Observers highlight the growing influence of foreign mercenary groups in Central Africa and the risks they pose to local populations. Investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the mercenaries’ operations and accountability for their actions.

Activists and civil society groups continue to demand transparency and justice for the victims. The ordeal of Zogonimbou and Mboliloungoule underscores the urgent need for stronger protections against human rights abuses in conflict zones.

What’s next for the activists?

With their transfer to Bangui’s gendarmerie cells, the two men now face an uncertain legal process. Their legal representatives have called for a fair trial and protection from further harm while in custody. The international community remains watchful as developments unfold.