Breaking news: Heavy fighting erupted in the heart of Zémio on the evening of 24 June 2026, around 19:50, between soldiers of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group.
The sudden confrontation turned the town centre into a battlefield, with heavy and light weapons fire sending terrified residents fleeing for cover. What began as a tense cohabitation between the two forces in the Haut-Mbomou region has now escalated into open combat in the streets.
Since the start of 2025, relations between national troops and Russian fighters have steadily deteriorated. This evening’s outbreak of violence marks a dangerous turning point for security in the area. A fragile calm has returned for now, but the situation remains highly uncertain.
According to local sources, the provisional toll includes one civilian woman killed, likely by a stray bullet during the exchange of fire. Two FACA soldiers were also seriously wounded. Further details and updates will follow as the situation develops.