The United Nations has called on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to take immediate action in light of alarming reports of disappearance and assassination of children and youth that coincide with a Government operation to tackle delinquency in Kinshasa.

The call was made in a press release issued by the UN Children's Fund, and the UN peacekeeping mission in DRC (MONUSCO) and made available to newsmen.

The two organizations said the "alarming" reports of disappearance and assassination of young men and children coincide with the start of 'Operation Likofi' (Punch) which Congolese authorities began a week ago to curb urban delinquency in the capital.

UNICEF and MONUSCO call for immediate steps to be taken by Congolese authorities to put an end to such acts.

They recalled that the State must in all circumstances ensure that human rights are protected and that children receive special protection, in line with Congolese laws and international treaties and conventions.

the organization explained that Investigations must be undertaken by judicial authorities so as those responsible for these acts are brought to justice, in accordance with the Congolese Criminal Code.

The United Nations reiterates its willingness to support the Congolese Government in its search for durable solutions to problems regarding the social reintegration of children and youths.