Summary:
This case concerns a Congolese woman human rights defender and member of the Filimbi citizens’ movement who was violently intercepted while on her way to participate in a peaceful sit-in calling for respect for constitutional electoral timelines. She was arbitrarily arrested, beaten, and publicly humiliated, including through the forced cutting of her hair by a senior police officer. She was also denied adequate medical care.

The violence resulted in serious injuries and the loss of her pregnancy. Despite filing a criminal complaint and pursuing follow-up steps, the authorities failed to conduct an effective investigation or prosecute those responsible, leaving her without justice for years.