Title: Mai-Mai fighters neutralized by the Congolese armed forces in Mangina
Introduction :
In the tumultuous region of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mai-Mai fighters from the UPLC and Kyandenga refractory coalition recently attacked a military position near the commune of Mangina. Fortunately, the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) managed to repel the attack and neutralize four combatants. This article reviews the details of the incident and highlights the importance of security forces for the stability of the region.
The course of the attack:
According to the spokesperson for Sokola 1 Grand Nord operations, Captain Anthony Mualushayi, Mai-Mai fighters from the UPLC and Kyandenga coalition attempted to storm a military position of the 1211th battalion in Mangina. The fighters, armed with various firearms and knives, faced a fierce response from the Congolese armed forces. During the exchange of fire, four Mai-Mai fighters were neutralized, and several bladed weapons were recovered by the loyalist army.
Consequences of the attack:
Unfortunately, a woman, the wife of a soldier, was shot and injured during the attack. She was quickly transferred to the hospital to receive appropriate care. Following this incident, many people in the region fled to supposedly safer areas. Cleaning and securing operations are currently continuing in Mangina and the surrounding area.
Questions about political support:
Captain Mualushayi also mentioned the alleged involvement of a political actor in the logistical support of these Mai-Mai fighters. He stressed the importance of continuing to investigate links between armed groups and certain political elements. This issue is of great importance, as it highlights the complex challenges facing the region’s stability.
Second clash in Lwemba:
In parallel with the Mangina attack, another clash was recorded in the village of Lwemba, located in the neighboring province of Ituri. The Congolese armed forces were on a combat patrol when the group of Mai-Mai fighters from the same coalition attacked them. Fortunately, there was no loss of life on either side, but several batches of war munitions were recovered by the Congolese army.
Conclusion :
This incident in Mangina highlights the ongoing challenges facing the North Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mai-Mai fighters continue to attack the Congolese armed forces, endangering the civilian population and exacerbating the already present instability. It is imperative that authorities continue to investigate the links between armed groups and political actors, in order to resolve these issues on both a security and political level. The stability of the region depends on the cooperation and commitment of all relevant actors.