Central African Minister Armel Sayo Kidnapped in Bangui
A wave of concern and uncertainty has swept through the Central African Republic (CAR) following the kidnapping of Armel Ningatoloum Sayo, the country’s Minister of Youth and Sports, on Sunday, January 25, in Bangui.
According to multiple sources, including France 24, four armed men abducted the minister in the capital. Tatiana Yangeko, Sayo’s spokesperson, confirmed the abduction and stated that the motive appeared linked to his governmental position. Reports also noted that Sayo holds dual nationality – Central African and French.
In a possibly related incident, twelve other members of an official delegation were reportedly kidnapped in the north of the country, although it remains unclear if the two cases are directly connected.
Who’s Behind the Kidnapping?
Conflicting claims surround the responsible group:
Initial reports suggest ex-Séléka fighters from the FRPC movement could be involved.
However, France 24 also mentions that anti-balaka elements may be the actual kidnappers, based on contact established through mediation efforts.
Crisis Response
A government crisis unit was immediately convened in Bangui, with participation from key national figures including the Archbishop of Bangui. Demands were reportedly sent to Sayo’s relatives, although their nature has not been made public.
This incident follows the recent abduction of a French UN worker and underscores the ongoing insecurity in the CAR, which has been gripped by violent conflict and political instability since 2013.
The government has called for calm as mediation and negotiation efforts continue in an attempt to secure the safe release of the hostages.
