Tension erupted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after an Ebola treatment centre at Rwampara General Hospital was reportedly set on fire following the death of a suspected Ebola patient.
The incident triggered panic at the facility and raised fresh concerns over the spread of the deadly virus in the region.
According to reports, relatives of the deceased forcefully removed the body from the hospital despite strong objections from medical staff. The confrontation quickly escalated into chaos, leading to unrest within the treatment centre and damage to parts of the facility.
During the disturbance, six patients reportedly escaped from the hospital. Health officials said the group included three confirmed Ebola patients and three others suspected to be infected with the virus. Authorities have not yet confirmed the whereabouts of the escaped patients.
It remains unclear whether anyone was injured or killed during the incident. Security forces were later deployed to the area as police attempted to restore calm and prevent further disorder around the hospital premises.
Medical workers at the facility were subsequently placed under military protection amid fears of additional attacks or resistance from members of the community. Health personnel continue to face challenges in enforcing Ebola safety measures in affected areas.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that the bodies of Ebola victims remain highly infectious after death. They stressed that direct contact with body fluids during burial or transportation of corpses can significantly increase the risk of spreading the virus.
Credit: BBC News Africa | Facebook
