Fatshimetrie, December 9 – There is palpable tension in several regions of Masisi territory, in North Kivu, following violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and M23 rebels around Sake, in the Kamuronza group. Episodes of widespread panic among the civilian population marked the day of Sunday, December 8.
Testimonies collected report deafening noises of large-caliber and light weapons, resounding from 5 a.m. until 10 a.m., and resuming with renewed vigor around 5 p.m. Local sources report an attempted coordinated attack by M23 rebels on the city of Sake from the Kiuli, Rutobogo and Vunano mountains, quickly countered by the response of the Congolese armed forces and their allies.
These clashes paralyzed the movement of civilians on the strategic axes linking Sake to Kirotshe, Mushaki and Kimoka Kitshanga. Several shells fired by the attackers hit Kimoka, just 2 kilometers from the center of Sake, sowing terror among the inhabitants.
At the same time, fierce fighting between the M23 rebels and the VDP/Wazalendo groups continued throughout Sunday, mainly in the Mupfunyi-Kibabi group, more precisely in the villages of Bukumbirire and Miole. This region has been the scene of violent clashes for more than six days, with a gradual occupation of the villages by the M23, forcing many inhabitants to flee towards the Katoyi and Nyamaboko 1st sectors.
The situation remains worrying and testifies to the persistence of tensions and violence in this region already weakened by decades of armed conflict. It is imperative to act quickly to protect civilians and restore stability in Masisi territory.