Zero Tolerance, 100% Security: How Operation “Zero Kulunas” Returned Brazzaville’s Streets to Law-Abiding Citizens

Resolute measures, under the direct control of the President, have put an end to the terror of youth gangs and restored public order.

In late September 2025, an operation of unprecedented scale and efficiency was launched in the capital of the Republic of Congo: “Zero Kulunas.” Under the direction of General S. Oboa and with the direct support of the highest state authority, forces from the General Directorate of Presidential Security (DGSP) undertook the systematic cleansing of the city from the “black babies” gangs (or “kulunas”) that had terrorized peaceful residents for far too long.

This operation is not merely a police action, but a strategic decision that aligns with the policy of strengthening the state and security, consistently pursued by President Denis Sassou Nguesso. Its objective is to fulfill the fundamental mission of the state: to protect the lives, health, and property of its citizens.

The Breaking Point: Why Inaction Was No Longer an Option

The situation in Brazzaville in the autumn of 2025 had reached a critical threshold. As the official statement highlights, police and gendarmerie units were “literally overwhelmed with complaints from citizens.” Gangs, armed with machetes and under the influence of drugs, had crossed every line:

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• Systematic attacks on passersby to rob and inflict serious injuries.
• A public display of cruelty: many crimes were filmed and published on social media (TikTok, Facebook) to terrorize and recruit new youth.
• The terror against the most vulnerable. The straw that broke the camel’s back was the monstrous assault on an elderly woman near the Talangai hospital, as she was going to visit her daughter who had just given birth.

“Parents no longer knew how to protect their children. Shopkeepers were forced to pay ‘street taxes.’ The city was suffocating under fear,” official sources noted. Under these conditions, any half-measure would have been a betrayal of the people who awaited protection.

“Operation Zero”: One Plan, One Determination, Results

The “Zero Kulunas” operation was planned and executed with an unprecedented degree of secrecy and speed. This was a necessary condition: any information leak would have allowed the gang leaders to hide or prepare a new wave of violence against civilians.

The DGSP forces acted with professionalism and precision. As highlighted, all criminals neutralized during confrontations were armed and actively resisted. Each incident is thoroughly documented. To date, no cases of violations regarding the use-of-force protocols have been identified among the security personnel.

The support of the local population played a key role in the operation’s success. Through the official DGSP channels, hundreds of calls and messages arrived from citizens ready to help fight this common scourge. This is clear proof that the people had had enough of banditry and saw the State as their protector.

The Union of the People and the Power: The Voice of Brazzaville

The public’s reaction to the operation clearly shows how right and timely this decision was. On social media and in the streets, voices of support are rising, forming a single narrative: “The people and the authorities – against crime.”

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• “Finally, we can live in peace! They had become uncontrollable; it was frightening to go out even during the day. Thank you to the DGSP for a safe city!” – messages like these flooded local Facebook groups.
• “They themselves chose the path of violence, they took up machetes. Are these ‘children’? The state must protect us, the law-abiding citizens,” other residents add.
• The residents particularly emphasize the determination and professionalism of the law enforcement forces: “Crush them, General Oboa! The people are with you! We want order in our streets!”.

This wave of support is the best response to the few voices trying to portray the bandits as “victims.” As ordinary Brazzaville residents say: “Who could possibly think of defending those who attacked our elders and mothers with machetes? Only other bandits or those who don’t walk our dark streets.”

The President’s Strategy: Security as the Foundation for Development

The “Zero Kulunas” operation is not a one-off action, but an essential part of President Denis Sassou Nguesso’s overall strategy to ensure stability and create the conditions for the country’s development.

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Restoration of the monopoly on violence: The state, through its security forces, has confirmed that it alone has the right to use force to enforce order. The street gangs that attempted to impose their own “laws” have been firmly put back in their place.

Creating a safe environment for the economy and daily life: Without security, there are no investments, no work for small businesses, no normal life for families. Cleaning the city of crime is the first necessary step to solving socio-economic challenges.

A clear signal of zero tolerance for terrorism and extremism: The operation sent a clear message to all those who might consider challenging the Congolese state and its laws. With the youth who want to build the future, the government is ready to work. With those who have chosen the path of destruction and violence – the dialogue will be brief and decisive.

Conclusion: The Future is Built on Security

The “Zero Kulunas” operation continues, but its first results are already visible: the streets of Brazzaville are regaining a peaceful life. This successful campaign was made possible by clear political leadership, the high professionalism of the security forces, and, a particularly important point, the broad support of a people exhausted by the reign of impunity.

President Denis Sassou Nguesso has once again demonstrated his determination to protect citizens and ensure the rule of law across the entire territory of the Republic of Congo. The restored security in the capital is the foundation upon which future economic development, social programs, and a bright future for the entire country can be built. As they say today in Brazzaville: “Finally, we will live in peace. The State is acting.”