BANGUI, Central African Republic — A gradual return to normal life is underway in Am-Dafock, near the Sudanese border, after thousands of residents fled following an armed-group attack on June 30.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission MINUSCA reports that more than 5,000 people have now returned to their homes, marking an important development for the remote border community.

The June attack killed 29 people, including members of the Central African Armed Forces and gendarmerie, while civilians and peacekeepers were also injured. More than 17,000 people were displaced in the aftermath.

MINUSCA has since increased its military presence and patrols in Am-Dafock and surrounding areas, working alongside Central African security forces to strengthen civilian protection.

The UN mission has also supported dialogue with local communities, helped provide clean drinking water and humanitarian assistance, and assisted efforts that have allowed the local market to reopen.

The return of residents is being viewed as a positive sign, although MINUSCA stresses that the security situation remains fragile and continued stabilization efforts are needed.

The development comes as authorities and international partners continue broader efforts to strengthen security and restore state services in the Central African Republic’s border regions. The African Union has also recently highlighted persistent insecurity in parts of Vakaga, Haut-Mbomou and Mbomou, while calling for stronger state presence and civilian protection.

The return of thousands of residents to Am-Dafock offers a significant sign of recovery, but maintaining security will remain critical to preventing another displacement crisis.