43. Telegram From the Station in the Congo to the Central Intelligence Agency1

0304 (In 42478).

1. Target2 has not left building in several weeks. House guarded day and night by Congolese and UN troops, both groups total about 150 men. Congolese troops are there to prevent target’s escape and to arrest him if he attempts. UN troops there to prevent storming of palace by Congolese. Concentric rings of defense make establishment of observation post impossible. Attempting get coverage of any movement into or out of house by Congolese. [1 line not declassified] Target has dismissed most of servants so entry this means seems remote.3

2. From local evidence it would appear that Egyptians wish to get target out of building so that he can participate in inflamatory political meetings. Ghanians on other hand, according to [name not declassified], wish subject to remain in building until arrival of UN good offices mission. At same time subject’s political followers in Stanleyville desire that he break out of his confinement and proceed to that city by car to engage in political activity since leaders feel that his popularity is sagging. Approach was made to Ghanians for help in breakout but this refused for reason given above. However, matter still under discussion by subject’s followers in Leopoldville and decision on breakout will probably be made shortly. Station expects to be advised [less than 1 line not declassified] of decision when made.

3. Station has several possible assets to use in event of breakout and studying several plans of action.4

End of message.

  1. Source: Central Intelligence Agency Files, Job 79–00149A, DDO/IMS Files, Box 23, Folder 1, African Division, Senate Select Committee, Volume II. Secret; Rybat; [text not declassified]PROP; Routine. Eyes alone Tweedy from COS. Received at 0534Z.
  2. Lumumba.
  3. Most of this paragraph is quoted in Interim Report, p. 33.
  4. Parts of paragraph two and all of paragraph three are quoted ibid., p. 48.