Union for Peace in the Central African Republic

Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC, French: Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique) is a rebel group in the Central African Republic which controls southern parts of the country.

Union for Peace in the Central African Republic
Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique
LeadersAli Darassa
Dates of operation2014–
Split fromSéléka
HeadquartersBambari (2014–17)
Alindao (2017–2020)
Bokolobo (2020–)
Active regionsSouthern part of Central African Republic
Opponents FPRC (sometimes)
MINUSCA (sometimes)
Anti-balaka (sometimes)
Battles and warsJanuary 2019 Bambari clashes
  Territories under control of UPC

History

UPC was formed on 17 September 2014 by Ali Darassa from ex-Séléka elements. Their initial headquarters was Bambari, however they were forced to retreat on 6 March 2017.[1] On 10 January 2019 they launched heavy attack on MINUSCA forces in Bambari vowing to recapture the city. They were repelled and in response Portuguese paratroopers raided their base in Bokolobo seizing some weapons and destroying some checkpoints.[2]

War crimes

On 29 January 2019 18 people were killed and 23 wounded when UPC fighters opened fire during funeral ceremony in Ippy.[3]

Organization

UPC profits from gold and diamond mines in areas it controls including Ndassima mine which they share control with FPRC.[4] They also profit from controlling cattle markets in Mobaye and Kouango.[5]

References
  1. "Tensions running high in CAR's Bambari as rebels vow to take control". 6 March 2017.
  2. "Watch: Portuguese paratroopers raid rebel base in Central African Republic". 18 January 2019.
  3. "UN says 18 killed in Central African Republic attack". 29 January 2019.
  4. "Midterm report of the Panel of Experts on the Central African Republic extended pursuant to Security Council resolution 2399" (PDF). 2018.
  5. "Letter dated 14 December 2018 from the Panel of Experts on the Central African Republic established pursuant to resolution 2399 (2018) addressed to the President of the Security Council". 14 December 2018. p. 121.
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