– American-Congolese man killed influencer son
– Maryland cannabis entrepreneur bungled coup DRC captured footage.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
One American citizen has lost his life, and another is in custody after a failed coup was foiled in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The dramatic incident unfolded as two of the coup plotters were apprehended while trying to escape across the Congo River, pleading for mercy as they lay wounded on the ground.
The main figure behind the coup attempt was Marcel Malanga, a 21-year-old who, along with his father Christian, had travelled from their home in Utah to lead the overthrow of President Felix Tshisekedi’s government. Tragically, Christian Malanga was fatally shot during the botched operation, while his son was captured along with two other American conspirators.
Marcel Malanga, 21, looked terrified as he was hauled into frame ahead of the coup attempt in a video posted to Facebook by his father
The US Ambassador to the DRC, Lucy Tamlyn, expressed shock and concern over the involvement of American citizens in the coup plot. She assured that the US government is cooperating fully with Congolese authorities in their investigation to hold accountable any American citizens implicated.
Another individual arrested was Benjamin Zalman-Polun, a 36-year-old from Maryland with a controversial background. The Congolese authorities also disclosed that an additional American and a British national were being interrogated in connection with the coup attempt.
General Sylvain Ekenge, speaking on national television, confirmed that the coup had been thwarted by the defense and security forces. Approximately 50 individuals, including the three American citizens, were taken into custody for questioning.
Local media reports initially suggested a CIA involvement in the coup, but the actual number of individuals involved was less than 100. The group had announced their intentions on Facebook before the failed operation unfolded.
Challenges and International Relations
The DRC has been plagued by violence from various armed groups vying for control of its valuable mineral resources. The country’s significant cobalt reserves have attracted global interest, particularly in the context of green energy initiatives.
Human rights organizations have highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in the DRC, characterized by exploitation and forced labor in mineral extraction. The US has expressed concerns about the DRC’s collaboration with certain militias, warning of potential conflicts with neighboring countries.
Last month, Chad threatened to expel US troops amid growing concerns about waning American influence in Africa vis-à-vis assertive Chinese and Russian diplomatic efforts. The US has a history of clandestine military operations in Africa, including past interventions in the DRC.
The failed coup in the DRC comes amidst renewed interest in US involvement in similar incidents, such as the attempted overthrow of Venezuela’s government in recent years. These events underscore the complex web of international relations and power dynamics at play in Africa and beyond.
Despite the turmoil, the situation in the DRC remains relatively calm, with President Tshisekedi yet to form a government following his re-election. The aftermath of the failed coup sheds light on the intricate political landscape and the challenges facing the nation moving forward.
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American-Congolese man killed, influencer son begging for life alongside Maryland cannabis entrepreneur friend after bungled coup in DRC
New footage captures moment they were captured.
