Masisi, North Kivu — Wazalendo fighters have regained control of multiple strategic positions from M23 rebels and their Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) allies following intense fighting over the weekend, dealing a notable setback to the rebels in the Masisi territory.

According to local and security sources, violent clashes erupted between May 23 and 24, 2026, in several villages within the Buabo and Nyamaboko I groupings of the Osso Banyungu sector. After hours of heavy combat, Wazalendo forces successfully recaptured the positions of Ntete, Shoa, and Burora, forcing M23-RDF elements to retreat from forward lines.

The advances come amid a broader offensive by the young Congolese volunteers, who have intensified pressure on M23 positions since May 17. In the Katoyi sector and Mupfunyi Kibabi grouping, Wazalendo fighters have launched repeated attacks, creating significant concern in Rubaya, a key mining town that serves as a major revenue source for the rebels’ war economy.

A sense of panic is now reported in Rubaya as residents brace for further escalation. In the neighboring Walikale territory, Wazalendo forces have also dislodged M23 rebels from two additional villages, securing those areas.

In response to the deteriorating situation, M23-RDF commanders are urgently reorganizing their troops. On Monday morning, May 25, five trucks carrying RDF elements withdrawn from positions including Shonyi, Mashango, Lubwe Sud, Kojo, Rubona, and Kashavu were observed gathering near Kitshanga before heading toward Rubaya to bolster embattled fighters who have been under sustained pressure for over a week in the Katoyi sector and Mupfunyi Kibabi grouping.

Control of mining areas remains a central driver of the fighting. Wazalendo gains around Rubaya could disrupt M23 supply lines and financing, potentially altering the balance of power in the Masisi region in the coming days.