A hospital in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been set alight by an angry crowd following the death of a patient suspected of having contracted Ebola.

The incident occurred near the city of Bunia in Ituri Province, where relatives of the deceased reportedly stormed the health facility after medical staff refused to release the body.

According to reports, tensions escalated when family members attempted to remove the body despite health protocols designed to prevent the spread of the highly infectious disease. The confrontation quickly turned violent, with parts of the hospital set on fire.

The attack comes amid growing concern over an Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC, where health authorities and international agencies are working to contain the spread of the virus.

Health experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of safe and dignified burial procedures during Ebola outbreaks, as contact with the bodies of infected individuals can significantly increase the risk of transmission.

The destruction of the hospital is expected to further complicate response efforts in the area, where health services are already under pressure. Authorities have not yet provided details on injuries or the extent of the damage caused by the fire.

–ChannelAfrica–