US diplomat detained in Congo raid

Security forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo have detained a US diplomat in a raid that targeted journalists and pro-democracy activists. 

Reports say the diplomat was found among a group of people believed to be causing an uprising against the state. 

The detentions followed a news conference in Kinshasa organized in support of a Congolese movement known as Filimbi that aims for greater youth participation in politics.

The activists included members of Burkina Faso's Balai Citoyen and Senegal's Y'en a Marre movements. 

Both have led large-scale protests in Franco-phone countries in recent years against presidents attempting to extend their time in office.

NEWS24