Violent clashes between M23 rebels and self-defense forces in North Kivu: Alarming security situation.

Title: M23 rebels confront self-defense forces in North Kivu

Introduction :
In a series of fights which broke out this Sunday, October 1, 2023, the M23 rebels clashed with the self-defense forces in several villages in the Bashali chiefdom, located in the territory of Masisi, in North Kivu. These clashes have raised concerns about the safety of local populations and drawn attention to the situation in the region.

Development :
According to consistent sources, the villages of Rugogwe, Busumba, Kilolirwe and Kibarizo were affected by rebel attacks. However, the self-defense forces, notably the Wazalendo elements, managed to repel the attackers in several of these towns. Local resistance from Kausa joined these efforts to defend their communities.

Testimonies report that the fighting was particularly violent in Kilolirwe (Nturo), where Wazalendo forces were deployed to counter M23 attacks. This situation caused a massive movement of residents of Petit Masisi towards the Goma-Kitchanga road, thus seeking to escape the violence.

The M23, for its part, reacted by accusing the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) of having attacked their positions in the Masisi region. However, this accusation has been rejected by the loyalist army, which claims that the M23 seeks to justify its presence in several towns by creating distractions.

Conclusion :
Clashes between M23 rebels and self-defense forces in North Kivu are raising concerns about the security of local populations. Local resistance, supported by Wazalendo elements, managed to repel attacks in several villages, but the continued presence of the M23 in the region poses a persistent threat. It is imperative that measures be taken to guarantee the safety of civilians and put an end to this situation of violence.