Kinshasa, October 16, 2025 – A morning of fear this Thursday in the center of the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo: the Rawbank agency located at Place Victoire, in the commune of Kalamu, was the target of an armed robbery which involved a hostage-taking, gunfire, and a rapid reaction from the police.

According to initial reports gathered on the scene, the attack began between 9:30 and 10:00 a.m. Armed individuals entered the establishment after firing several warning shots, creating widespread panic in the surrounding area. Some bank customers and employees were reportedly taken hostage.

Faced with the situation, security forces, particularly the Congolese National Police (PNC), supported by the FARDC, quickly intervened. They established a security perimeter around the agency and exchanged fire with the attackers. Thanks to this coordinated action, the robbers were neutralized.

In addition, a woman identified as Honorine Porche was arrested. She is presented as the alleged leader of the gang, which reignites debates about the involvement of organized networks in recent urban robberies.

At the same time, the relevant authorities expressed their relief and confirmed that the hostages had been released safely. Several criminals are currently in police custody for questioning.

It is still being verified by the competent authorities whether there were any casualties, as well as the exact number of people potentially affected during this attack.

However, this incident raises several questions. How was an armed group able to operate so easily in such a busy area of the capital? What security gaps need to be addressed, both in banking institutions and in urban surveillance?