In March 2013, the Muslim-dominated Seleka rebel movement seized power in Bangui, bringing the corrupt regime of François Bozizé to an end.

But a reign of terror ensued for weeks as soldiers backing the new president, Michel Djotodia, led a wave of violence and looting targeting Christian communities.

Michaël Zumstein has made a number of trips to the Central African Republic, the first in September 2013, when he witnessed violent attacks on Christian civilians. Zumstein was also there when the Christian self-defense militia, called Anti-Balaka, gained control and consequently the Muslims were forced to flee.

These photographs stand as a record of the unprecedented violence that continues unabated to this day.

— Agence VU’

Don’t miss the work of all the other winners and finalists from the LensCulture Visual Storytelling Awards 2014. In total, you’ll find 25 powerfully told stories from across the world.