The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) says it has repelled attacks by a coalition rebels including M23 fighters in North Kivu on Tuesday.
FARDC claims its sldiers demonstrated professionalism in defending the national territory, following attacks carried out by the AFC-M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, along the Katogota-Luvungi axis in the east of the country.
Rwanda and the M23 have not commented.
According to Captain Sylvain Bijanu, spokesman for the 33rd military region, the assailants targeted several FARDC positions, notably in Katogota-Luvungi, Rugezi, Ngungu, Kaziba, Kasika, and Civanga-Hombo.
Despite the intensity of the clashes, the FARDC successfully resisted the onslaughts and deployed reinforcements, ensuring control of the situation in several sectors.
The Commander of the 33rd military region, Brigadier General Jean-Jacques Ilunga Kabamba, reassured the population in the east, calling for calm and vigilance from them.
He urged residents to cooperate with security forces, report any suspicious activity, and avoid risky areas until further notice. “United, we will defeat the enemy. Peace remains our priority,” he affirmed.
South Kivu, in eastern DRC, is regularly targeted for attacks by armed groups.
The FARDC are continuing their operations to protect the population and guarantee stability in the region, the statement said.
The authorities stress the importance of public cooperation in maintaining security and preventing any escalation.
DM/ac/lb/as/APA