Between Wednesday 06 and Thursday 07 March, a series of armed clashes and attacks involving the March 23 (M23) militant group have been reported in the Rutshuru and Masisi territories.
The incidents are as follows:
- Today, 07 March, reports indicate that M23 militants captured the town of Kibirizi in Bwito Chiefdom, Rutshuru Territory, North Kivu Province.
- Yesterday, 06 March, clashes between M23 militants and Wazalendo-FADRC soldiers were reported in Mupfunyi Shanga Group in Masisi Territory, North Kivu Province.
- Yesterday, 06 March, Wazalendo and FADRC (DRC forces) soldiers reportedly recaptured the village of Kituva in Masisi Territory, North Kivu Province following clashes with occupying M23 militants.
The latest incidents follow increased attacks by the M23 in North Kivu Province over the past weeks which have resulted in significant displacements, casualties and loss of property in arson and theft, following their occupation of various towns.
In Rutshuru Territory, the series of attacks has reportedly resulted in more than 15 civilian fatalities (see Alert). Notably, the recent capture of Kibirizi follows the militant group's occupation of the nearby Kashalira and Kirima towns which left it vulnerable to the incursion. Other towns captured by the militants in the territory include Nyanzale, Katwe, Rwahanga, Kabanda, Kikuku and Kibungu.
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that more than 100,000 people have been forced to flee the affected areas in Rutshuru Territory, which has a significant number of refugees, following the sustained fighting. Those displaced are currently seeking refugee or travelling to the nearby Rwindi and Vitshumbu towns (Rutshuru Territory) while others are moving to the Kanyabayonga, Kayna and Kirumba towns (Lubero Territory).
The elevated threat of M23 attacks in the territories has prompted increased security presence around the administrative capital of Goma with reports indicating that troops from the United Nations (UN) MONUSCO peacekeeping mission, FARDC and the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) remain entrenched around the city and neighbouring town of Sake. While this will prevent M23’s capture of these localities, it potentially limits their support for the FARDC in other areas where M23 is operational and could see the rebel group further consolidate its position in Rutshuru over the coming weeks.
Given the sustained activity of the M23, further arbitrary and targeted attacks by the rebel group as well as armed engagements with pro-government forces are likely in the territories over the medium term.
Clients are advised to exercise extreme caution when in the North Kivu Province, particularly in the Beni, Rutshuru and Masisi territories. Non-essential travel to the province should be avoided.
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