Missing Ebola Patients Spark Health Fears After Mob Torches DRC Treatment Centre

Health authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are racing to trace 18 suspected Ebola patients who disappeared after an angry mob attacked and partially burned an Ebola treatment centre, heightening fears of a possible surge in infections.

The attack unfolded on Friday night in the town of Mongbwalu, where furious residents stormed a treatment tent operated by humanitarian medical organisation Doctors Without Borders, forcing patients to flee amid scenes of panic and destruction.

Although no injuries were reported during the violence, health officials say the disappearance of the suspected patients has triggered serious concern over the potential spread of the highly contagious virus within surrounding communities.

Mongbwalu hospital director Dr Richard Lokudi warned that the missing patients pose a significant public health threat, stressing that urgent efforts are underway to locate them and contain any risk of transmission.

The latest incident adds to growing tensions surrounding Ebola containment measures in the region. It comes only days after another Ebola treatment facility in Rwampara was torched following public anger over the handling of the body of a suspected Ebola victim, exposing deep mistrust and resistance toward health interventions.

In response to the escalating unrest, authorities have tightened security at Ebola burial sites, deploying police and soldiers to oversee burials conducted under strict public health guidelines aimed at preventing further infections.

The violence highlights the complex challenge facing health workers battling Ebola in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where misinformation, fear and community resistance continue to undermine efforts to contain the deadly disease.

By Witness A Phiri