Clashes Between M23 and Wazalendo Continue in Rutshuru

Heavy fighting between the AFC/M23 rebels and Wazalendo fighters allied with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) continued on Thursday, January 15, in the Bukombo grouping of Rutshuru territory, near the town of Mweso in North Kivu province.

According to local sources cited by Radio Okapi, gunfire involving both heavy and light weapons was reported from as early as 6:00 a.m. in the locality of Bumbasha, located close to Mweso. The clashes reportedly expanded as the day progressed, spreading toward the Ngeri tea plantation in the Mubirubiru area.

Additional exchanges of gunfire were also heard later in the morning in Bwiro and within the Senki plantations, situated near the Mweso–Kashunga road. Residents say the violence has now entered its third consecutive day.

The fighting follows clashes reported the previous day across several villages in the Bwito chiefdom. Areas affected included Kitunda and Nyarubande, along with surrounding villages in the Kihondo grouping, as well as Bumbasha and nearby localities in Bukombo.

Local sources further reported that the opposing forces may be using so-called kamikaze drones during the confrontations, reflecting a worrying escalation in tactics.

Civilian Impact

Several civilians, including internally displaced persons, were injured in the villages of Bumbasha, Kivuma, and Kanyangohe. A local customary authority said it remains difficult to establish a precise casualty count due to ongoing displacement and insecurity.

The same source expressed concern that many displaced families have been scattered by the fighting, with some residents reporting that they have lost contact with relatives amid the chaos.

The security situation around Mweso remains volatile as fighting continues between the armed groups.

Source: Radio Okapi