Violent clashes erupt in Zémio between FACA forces and Wagner mercenaries

Internal conflict breaks out in Zémio city center

In a startling turn of events, intense combat broke out in the heart of Zémio on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Starting at approximately 7:50 PM, the city center became a battlefield as members of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) engaged in direct fire against their allies, the Russian mercenaries of the Wagner Group.

The security situation in the southeastern region of the République centrafricaine has taken a sharp and dangerous turn. The sudden transition of these two allied forces into opposing front lines has left the local population in a state of absolute terror. Throughout the evening, the heavy thud of large-caliber weapons and the rapid fire of light arms echoed through the streets, shattering the peace of the community.

Rising tensions in Haut-Mbomou

This eruption of violence is the culmination of months of friction within the Haut-Mbomou zone. Since the beginning of 2025, the relationship between national forces and Russian elements has been steadily degrading. What began as minor disagreements has now escalated into open warfare in an urban setting, significantly complicating the regional security Sahel landscape and the stability of the République centrafricaine.

While a fragile and precarious calm has returned to the area for the moment, the atmosphere remains thick with uncertainty. The potential for further escalation hangs over Zémio as the reasons for this sudden breakdown in cooperation remain a point of high concern.

Casualties reported following the exchange of fire

Initial assessments of the skirmish indicate a tragic toll on the local population. A civilian woman lost her life during the chaos, likely struck by a stray bullet during the heat of the exchange. Within the military ranks, at least two FACA soldiers sustained severe injuries and are currently in critical condition.

The situation remains fluid, and the long-term implications of this direct confrontation between FACA and Wagner forces are still being evaluated as the region waits to see if this represents a permanent rupture in their alliance.