May 1, 2018
The United States Embassy notes with horror and sadness the senseless attack against the church in Fatima today and the subsequent revenge attack against the mosque in Lakounga. We mourn the deaths that occurred, as well as the injuries that resulted from this criminal act. We extend our deepest condolences to the families.
The individuals who carried out this act are cowards. They represent neither Muslims, nor Christians. They do not represent Central Africans. They only seek to provoke a bloody response. We urge all citizens of this country to not to fall into the trap of violence and revenge. This must stop.
We condemn this act without reservation and we stand with all Central Africans who stand with peace.
We truly understand the deep anger that people feel at this moment, but we implore all citizens to renounce violence and return home tonight to avoid further bloodshed. This cycle must stop, for the sake of the country’s children and all of its people.
