DRC uncovers over 63,000 fake police officers in major audit

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is grappling with a critical challenge within its national police force following a comprehensive government-led audit. The findings reveal that out of 157,886 officially registered police officers, a staggering 63,817 are classified as either ‘fake’ or inactive, drastically reducing the number of officers available to maintain public safety.

This revelation has significantly lowered the police-to-citizen ratio, leaving the country vulnerable to rising security threats. In response, authorities have initiated a sweeping nationwide verification campaign, starting with Kinshasa. This initiative involves physical verification of officers and the issuance of biometric identification cards, aiming to eliminate duplicates, purge fictitious names, and streamline payroll and promotion systems.

Congolese police officers during a parade in Kinshasa, February 24, 2025. © HARDY BOPE / AFP

A costly drain on public funds

The audit highlights that these irregularities represent an annual financial drain of between $99.8 million and $233 million for the national budget. This revelation comes as the DRC rolls out a sweeping security sector reform program, supported by a $2.55 billion budget allocated through 2030. The initiative includes plans to recruit and train 90,000 new officers, restructure security institutions, and strengthen community-police relations to combat escalating crime in major urban centers.

The reforms follow deepening public concerns over surging insecurity, particularly in Kinshasa, where residents report a sharp increase in armed robberies, kidnappings, and violent assaults. President Félix Tshisekedi has called for intensified crackdowns on criminal networks while accelerating reforms to enhance the efficiency and professionalism of the security forces.