Violent Attack Near Louamba
Shortly after nightfall on Sunday, October 26, a gravel road section connecting N’Kayi to Louamba became the scene of brutal violence. Three young men armed with machetes attacked Kevin Moukiama, 42, and his daughter Patchelie, 14, as they were returning home on a new Jakarta motorcycle.
Bleeding heavily but conscious, the father managed to protect his child until a passing motorcyclist heard the screams and rushed to Louamba to get help. Police from the N’Kayi station arrived within the hour, secured the area, and evacuated the victims to the district referral hospital.
Victims Identify Suspects from Their Hospital Beds
Surgeons quickly stabilized Kevin Moukiama, who was suffering from deep scalp lacerations and multiple facial fractures, while also suturing a severe wound on Patchelie’s arm. From his hospital bed the next morning, Moukiama provided investigators with three names he had recognized.
Bouenza Police Launch a Regional Manhunt
Based on this testimony, the Bouenza Departmental Police launched a regional manhunt, alerting checkpoints along National Route 1 and deploying plainclothes units towards Madingou, where the fugitives were reportedly seen boarding a minibus.
Village Reacts with Fear and Vigilance
In Louamba, anger is mixed with relief. Villagers spent Monday reinforcing footbridges and clearing roadside vegetation to prevent potential attackers from hiding.
Growing Threat from “Black Babies” Gangs
The machete attack adds to a series of rural robberies attributed to the “Black Babies,” teenage gangs known for their swift and brutal attacks.
Government Security Operation Expands to Bouenza
In August, the government expanded Operation Mbata Ya Bakolo, a security initiative first tested in Brazzaville, to secondary cities in Bouenza. Combined night patrols, community workshops, and expedited trials have already reduced street assaults in N’Kayi by 12 percent.
Judicial Follow-Through Remains a Challenge
Legal analysts emphasize that arrests must be followed by swift and transparent trials to deter copycats.
Support Systems Aid Injured Family
In N’Kayi, Red Cross social workers visited the Moukiama family to assess trauma and financial needs. The Ministry of Social Affairs manages a modest fund for victims.
Local Leaders Advocate for Institutional Justice
The Prefect of Bouenza praised villagers for their cooperation with security forces and warned against vigilante actions.
Economic Repercussions Reach Rural Markets
Motorcycle taxis are lifelines in the scattered villages of Bouenza, and disruptions are impacting commerce.
Religious Groups Promote Youth Mentoring
Pastors and imams have scheduled joint prayer sessions, emphasizing youth mentoring over punishment.