The newly formed unit has been trained in civilian protection, street-level law enforcement, crowd control, and crime investigation. Officers have also been equipped with the necessary tools to carry out their duties.
Speaking at the launch on Sunday, Gen. Makenga stressed that the unit must operate differently from the Congolese government forces, which he accused of corruption, abuse of authority, and discrimination against citizens.
'I ask you to be a police force different from the others we face, different from those troops who fail in their duties, beat people, kill, steal, are corrupt, and discriminate against citizens. That is not the police," he said.
Gen. Makenga further emphasised discipline and professionalism, urging officers to act as a mirror of the movement and to earn the trust of local communities.
'Be a people's police; do not be feared, be approachable, and help them,' he said.
He called on the officers to support citizens who have long suffered under the DRC government, providing assistance without discrimination and demonstrating effective governance.
The AFC/M23 controls large swaths of territory in eastern DRC, including the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu. Following the establishment of civil administration and the police force, the group plans to set up a judicial system in the future.
IGIHE
