Katenga, August 6, 2025 – The Forces Coalisées pour la Résistance Nationale (FCRN) have issued a strong statement condemning the latest rebel assaults in the Itombwe Highlands of Mwenga Territory, South Kivu Province. According to the communiqué signed by Colonel Kahengule, FCRN spokesperson, armed elements of the M23-AFC-Twigwaneho coalition launched an attack early Wednesday, August 6, on civilians in the locality of Makyaina, Basimukinje I groupement.
The FCRN described the violence as a “flagrant violation of human rights” and a direct threat to regional peace and security. The statement highlighted a disturbing pattern of recent attacks:
- Last week, two civilians were killed in Kalingi and a woman was abducted.
- On Tuesday, August 5, two more civilians were killed in Bukunji.
- This morning’s attack was met with armed resistance from FCRN forces, sparking intense clashes.
Wazalendo Counter-Offensive
By mid-afternoon, additional Wazalendo units under General Kakobanya joined forces with those of Zelambuma and Nyota Yazuri to repel the rebels in Bukunji and Kipupu, west of Mikenge. The AFC-Twigwaneho M23 forces, led by “Tuwetuwe,” were pushed back eastwards toward Minembwe and later encircled near Libende.
At 18:24 local time, General Kakobanya’s forces had entered Mikenge town and secured former rebel positions, effectively cutting off routes to Minembwe.
Wider Conflict Context
These clashes come amid a broader escalation in South Kivu and North Kivu provinces. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, recently reported that M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, massacred at least 319 civilians – including 48 women and 19 children – in Rutshuru territory between July 9 and July 21, 2025.
In Walungu territory, heavy fighting resumed in Mulamba on Sunday, forcing civilians to flee toward Burhale and Mubone. Earlier, South Kivu provincial spokesperson Didier Kabi confirmed that FARDC and Wazalendo units had tactically withdrawn from Mulamba and Kaniola to prevent mass civilian casualties, leaving some localities under temporary rebel control.
FCRN’s Call to Action
The FCRN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians “until the ultimate sacrifice” and urged the Congolese government to strengthen security in the Itombwe Highlands. It also appealed to the international community to take immediate action to halt atrocities and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
“Armed groups spreading terror and destruction will not deter our struggle for peace, justice, and solidarity,” the communiqué concluded.
✍ Author: Mangwa – Mecamedia Africa
🌐 Read more: mecamediaafrica.com
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