**Civilian Casualties in FARDC and M23 Clashes in Masisi: One Dead, Two Injured**
A relative calm settles in on this Friday, January 17, 2025, across almost all combat lines in the Masisi territory of North Kivu. This comes after intense clashes were reported all day on Thursday between elements of the M23/RDF coalition and the FARDC, supported by volunteers for the defense of the nation (VDP), commonly known as “Wazalendo.” At least one civilian was killed, and two others were injured by gunfire in the capital of the Masisi territory during these offensives.
**Current Situation in Masisi**
According to Voltaire Batundi, president of the civil society of Masisi, loyalist forces are regrouping to liberate all areas recently captured by the M23, including Masisi center and Ngungu. Batundi reports that while the situation remains calm in Masisi center this morning, the M23 has advanced to Kami-Lwanguba, Mashaki, Kironge, and Busekere, already claiming a significant portion of Buabo and advancing towards Kilambo. Loyalist forces are positioned in Luashi and the surrounding areas of Kahongole, towards Kahanga and Kasura. Additionally, other Wazalendo fighters are in Buabo, engaging in combat against the M23 to prevent their advance. Unfortunately, Masisi center is still under M23 control, with casualties reported from yesterday’s gunfire. Three civilians were hit, one fatally, and two are in critical condition at the hospital. Ngungu remains in a state of deadlock, with the FARDC regrouping towards Numbi to reclaim lost territory.
**Impact on Displaced Populations**
The recent outbreaks of violence in the Masisi territory, particularly on the Ngungu axis, have led to further displacement of populations. Several thousand displaced individuals have sought refuge in the Kalehe territory of South Kivu, where they already struggle to survive in precarious conditions.
**FARDC Success and Ongoing Operations**
It is worth noting that the FARDC thwarted the M23 terrorists’ attempt to advance into South Kivu to illegally exploit natural resources. Lieutenant Colonel Njike Kaiko Guillaume, the FARDC spokesperson in North Kivu, announced this development last weekend from Lumbishi, a town in the Kalehe territory of South Kivu recently recaptured by loyalist forces as part of Operation Caterpillar 2.
###In Conclusion
The situation in Masisi remains tense as clashes between the FARDC and the M23 continue to endanger civilians and prompt mass displacements. The efforts of the loyalist forces to contain the M23 advance and protect the local population are ongoing, with significant challenges ahead in restoring peace and stability to the region.