LONDON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Seeking justice for slain human rights defender Floribert Chebeya is a sign Congolese authorities are committed to the rule of law, London said.
Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo last week launched a trial in connection to the slaying of Chebeya, a Congolese rights activist.
Chebeya was found dead in the back seat of his car in June in Kinshasa. His body was discovered partially clothed and his driver had disappeared.
He sent a text message to his wife indicating he was at police headquarters for a meeting but no more was heard from him, the BBC said at the time.
Henry Bellingham, the British minister for Africa, said he hoped justice was delivered quickly in the case. Eight suspects are on trial in connection to the case.
"This is an important case for DRC to show they will take action against those who commit human rights abuses and believe they can act with impunity," said Bellingham. "I hope that justice is delivered quickly and transparently in a fair trial."
Chebeya complained of regular received threats from police. He was called to meet with national police days before his death.
