A Kenyan truck driver has reportedly been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), prompting the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDCA) to issue an urgent security alert to transporters using the affected route.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 15, the association identified the deceased as Mohamed Talib and urged drivers to exercise extreme caution amid renewed violence along the transport corridor.
“LoDCA has received distressing reports of renewed violence along this route, including the reported killing of Kenyan driver Mohamed Talib and other fatalities involving transport workers and civilians. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the wider transport fraternity affected by these tragic incidents,” LoDCA stated.
The association raised concerns over escalating insecurity along the Mahagi-Pimbo-Dugu-Bunia-Kisangani route, a major transport corridor frequently used by Kenyan truck drivers and one that has been associated with abductions and deadly attacks targeting long-distance transport workers.
LoDCA warned that the deteriorating security situation had exposed drivers, conductors and other road users to increased risks. It also highlighted poor road conditions in sections of the corridor, saying they further complicated the challenges facing transporters operating in the affected areas.
Six Kenyans Among 12 Captured
The reported killing comes a day after six Kenyans were among 12 people reportedly captured by rebels while transporting cargo through Pimbo, Djugu, Igabriel and Bunia in the DRC.
The areas have reportedly experienced heightened security concerns amid years of rebel group activity and control.
Reports indicated that the trucks were ambushed during the incident, with attackers breaking their windows, deflating their tyres and removing their number plates. Debris believed to be remnants of the transported cargo was also seen scattered on the ground.
The latest incidents have heightened concerns over the safety of Kenyan truck drivers and other transport workers using the route to move goods through the conflict-affected region.
LoDCA Issues Travel Advisory
Following the reported killing and other attacks, the association called on drivers, transport companies, logistics operators and cargo owners to suspend non-essential journeys along the affected corridor until the security situation is confirmed to be safe.
“In the interest of safeguarding lives and protecting transport personnel, LoDCA strongly advises all drivers, transport companies, logistics operators, and cargo owners to Suspend all non-essential travel along the Mahagi-Pimbo-Dugu-Bunia-Kisangani corridor until the security situation is verified to be safe,” LoDCA urged.
The association further cautioned transport companies against sending trucks and personnel into the affected areas without credible security clearance and updated risk assessments.
Drivers already operating along the corridor were advised to seek safe locations, remain in regular communication with their fleet managers and follow guidance issued by recognised security agencies and local authorities.
LoDCA also called on the Kenyan and Congolese governments, security agencies, transport regulators, logistics companies, cargo owners and regional trade organisations to strengthen cross-border security coordination and information sharing.
The association said coordinated action was necessary to address the security threats facing transport workers and help safeguard lives along the critical trade corridor.
