Deadly clashes erupt in Zemio as centrafrican troops and Wagner mercenaries turn on each other

Tensions in the Haut-Mbomou region have reached a dangerous turning point after a sudden outbreak of violence in the heart of Zemio. Just before 8:00 PM on June 24, 2026, gunfire erupted between Central African Republic armed forces (FACA) and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group, transforming a once cooperative alliance into a combat zone.

Witnesses reported heavy and light weapons fire echoing through the streets, sending civilians scrambling for cover as the two forces exchanged fire. The situation, which had been steadily deteriorating since early 2025, finally erupted into open confrontation in broad daylight, leaving the local population in shock and uncertainty.

The sudden escalation stems from growing friction between FACA soldiers and Wagner operatives, who had been deployed to support security operations in the area. Reports indicate that the standoff began without warning, catching both military personnel and civilians off guard.

As night fell, a fragile calm returned to Zemio, but the underlying tensions remain unresolved. Preliminary reports confirm at least one civilian death—a woman struck by a stray bullet during the crossfire. Among the military casualties, two FACA soldiers were critically injured and are receiving urgent medical attention.

The Central African Republic now faces a heightened security crisis, with the future stability of the region hanging in the balance. Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the incident, and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.