Reports of deaths at DR Congo protest

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo (AA) - Two people were reportedly killed and six others seriously injured on Monday in clashes between demonstrators and police in Kisangani, north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, local sources told Anadolu Agency early Tuesday.

"Hundreds of people including bikers answered the call of the Bikers Association to protest against arbitrary arrests and other police harassment,” Georges Kapiamba, president of the Congolese Association for Access to Justice (ACAJ) said.

"But the demonstration degenerated and two people were shot dead and six others seriously injured," he added.

The deaths and injuries have not been independently confirmed.

Some civil society activists told Anadolu Agency that protesters were dispersed by the security forces.

“The police used force,” Patrick Kiuka, one activist, said.

However, Kisangani mayor Augustin Osumaka said: “Taxi drivers (taxi bikes) have disturbed public order during an unauthorized or notified demonstration … As recommended by the law, we sent the police to the scene.”

The political and security situation has been very tense in the Democratic Republic of Congo as the opposition accuses President Joseph Kabila of wanting to change the constitution and stay in power.

His mandate expires in Nov. 2016.