A German woman was detained and reportedly assaulted by security forces following an attempted bank robbery in Kinshasa, the German embassy confirmed Monday.
The heist unfolded Friday in broad daylight at a Rawbank branch, drawing crowds as police quickly surrounded the building and apprehended the suspects.
One of the accused, DRC-born German national Honorine Porsche, appeared in videos partially clothed and roughly handled by security forces, sparking national outrage.
Social media erupted, highlighting persistent concerns over police brutality and sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where such incidents are frequently reported.
The German embassy confirmed Porsche’s citizenship but withheld further details, citing the need for her “protection,” leaving her dual nationality status unclear.
President Felix Tshisekedi called for sanctions and prosecutions against officers responsible for her mistreatment during a cabinet meeting, broadcast on state television Friday.
Leonnie Kandolo Omoyi, Minister for the Family, condemned Porsche’s ordeal as “acts of public humiliation” and urged stronger accountability for law enforcement abuses.
The German Embassy issued a statement urging Congolese forces to uphold human rights and international standards while strongly condemning the alleged violations.
Authorities in Kinshasa welcomed the embassy’s concerns and affirmed plans to pursue criminal proceedings against the officers implicated in the incident.
The case has reignited debate over police conduct and human rights protections in Congo, highlighting the fragile balance between law enforcement and public accountability.
As both local and international observers watch closely, the incident underscores persistent tensions between security measures and respect for individual dignity in the country.
