Hostages freed after ten months

Three hostages were released after approximately ten months of captivity in the southeast of the Central African Republic and arrived in Bangui on October 22 via a special flight organized by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Mission for the Stabilization of the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

Kidnapping occurred during elections

Koumba Ndiaye, deputy sub-prefect of Bambouti, Naomie Topien, and Dieu-Béni Endjitonguele, both employees of the National Electoral Authority (ANE), had been kidnapped on December 28, 2025, in Bambouti, in the Haut-Mbomou, by suspected members of the Azande Ani Kpi Gbè militia (AAKG), on the day of the national elections.

Release follows mediation efforts

Their release on October 19 followed several months of mediation efforts conducted by local authorities and MINUSCA. The three former captives were first transferred to Obo before being transported to the capital.

Government officials welcome return

Upon their arrival at the Bangui-M'Poko International Airport, they were greeted by several members of the government, including the ministers in charge of Territorial Administration, Public Security, Health, and Defense, as well as by the first vice president of the National Assembly, Symphorien Mapenzi, and the president of the ANE, Barthélemy Mathias Morouba. The United Nations were represented by Mohamed Ag Ayoya, the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in the Central African Republic and Humanitarian Coordinator.

Meeting with the head of state

The three released individuals were then received at the National Assembly and then at the presidential palace by the head of state, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, in the presence of the Prime Minister, Félix Moloua, and the United Nations representative.

Hostage shares experience of captivity

Koumba Ndiaye expressed her relief, mentioning the harsh conditions of detention. "The period we spent in captivity was truly horrible. What we experienced in the bush was very difficult," she said, expressing joy at being received by the President of the Republic.

Gratitude and context of release

The deputy sub-prefect also thanked the government, MINUSCA, human rights organizations, and the population for their solidarity during the long months of captivity. This release constitutes a favorable resolution following a crisis that had mobilized the Central African authorities and the United Nations mission. It occurs in a context where the protection of public and electoral actors remains an important issue in areas affected by insecurity.