On the morning of Monday, September 28, air strikes attributed to the AFC/M23 rebels targeted two positions occupied by Wazalendo fighters in the territory of Masisi, North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. According to civilian and military sources, the attacks hit the villages of Kaleta and Bitoyi in the Ufamandu groupings at around 7:00 local time. These sources claim that the strikes were carried out using drones.
The air strikes occurred after several days of clashes in this part of the Masisi territory. Witnesses reported fighting around Miko, near Remeka, between Wazalendo fighters allied with the FARDC and the AFC/M23 on Saturday and Sunday. Local sources indicate that several positions changed hands during these clashes. The AFC/M23 had regained control of the center of Remeka on Friday, September 25, before launching new attacks against FARDC and Wazalendo positions in the area.
The resumption of combat in the region has resulted in the interruption of circulation on the Nyabiondo-Kashebere-Mungazi axis, which connects the territories of Masisi and Walikale, since September 24. This development has complicated the displacement of people in the region. Local sources report that the ongoing clashes in several areas of the Masisi territory continue to affect the civilian population.
The situation in the region remains volatile, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. In Burungu, in the Bashali chiefdom, at least eight civilians were reportedly killed and six others injured on Saturday evening, according to local sources. However, this toll could not be independently confirmed at the time of publication.
Heavy and light gunfire was also heard on Saturday around Nyabiondo, in the Osso-Banyungu sector. The pursuit of combat in several areas of the Masisi territory continues to impact the civilian population. The changes in control of certain localities and the suspension of road traffic further complicate displacements in the region.
According to Radio Okapi, a local radio station, the clashes have led to significant disruptions in the region. The station reported that at least 16 miliciens were killed in clashes between the CRP and the CODECO in Djugu.
The humanitarian situation in the region is a cause for concern, with many civilians affected by the ongoing violence. The international community is urged to take note of the situation and provide necessary assistance to those affected.
Key points
- The air strikes attributed to AFC/M23 rebels targeted Wazalendo positions in Masisi, North Kivu, on September 28.
- The clashes have resulted in significant disruptions, including the interruption of circulation on a key axis and humanitarian concerns.
- The situation in the region remains volatile, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict.
