Clash Erupts Between M23 and Wazalendo Militias in Tongo: Rutshuru Update
In the groupement of Tongo, chefferie de Bwito, located in the territory of Rutshuru, reports are coming in of intense clashes between the M23 and Wazalendo militias. The M23 is said to have initiated the attack, leading to heavy and light weapons fire being heard in the area of Lubwe Sud, causing further displacement of the local population.
Witness Accounts and Expert Commentary
According to Isaac Kibira, the deputy governor’s representative in Bwito, “The M23 rebels from Mulimbi launched an attack on the Wazalendo position in Lubwe Sud. The population fled the area, with some heading towards Mugogo, others towards Kanyatsi, and a large number moving towards Lubwe Nord. The situation remains extremely tense, with people reluctant to return to their homes. A faction of the M23 has now left the area to regroup in Mulimbi via Kitwayovu.”
Furthermore, at least five members of the M23/RDF coalition were reportedly killed in an ambush by Wazalendo fighters near Kiseguro in the Binza groupement of Rutshuru territory. The M23 rebels were caught trying to steal agricultural products from farmers who were braving the danger to harvest their crops, particularly maize. The sound of heavy and light weapons echoed for hours following the ambush in both Kiseguro and Ngwenda, where clashes between Wazalendo and M23 fighters were ongoing.
Recent Developments and Impact
Despite these intense confrontations, there has been a relative calm observed on the Kibumba axis in Nyiragongo territory after a day-long fierce battle between the M23/RDF elements and the FARDC, supported by Wazalendo fighters on the previous Sunday.
On a separate note, traffic has slowly resumed on the Goma-Rutshuru axis through Kibumba, an area currently occupied by M23 rebels. A few motorcycle taxi drivers managed to leave Rutshuru and reach Goma on Tuesday morning, indicating a tentative return to normalcy in the region.
Expert Insight and Humanizing Touch
In the midst of these clashes and displacements, it’s crucial to remember the human toll of such violence. Behind each statistic or report lies a story of fear, loss, and resilience. The people caught in the crossfire are not just numbers on a page but individuals with families, dreams, and hopes for a better future. As we digest the latest news updates, let’s also take a moment to reflect on the human impact of conflict and the importance of finding peaceful resolutions to these ongoing crises. The road to lasting peace may be long and arduous, but each small step towards understanding, empathy, and dialogue brings us closer to a world where violence is no longer the answer. Let’s stand together in solidarity with those affected by conflict and work towards a brighter, more peaceful tomorrow.