The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) say they have killed 23 fighters in clashes in the highlands of Uvira and Fizi, while 11 others reportedly surrendered to government forces.
The FARDC said the military operations were aimed at pushing back AFC/M23 fighters and allied armed groups, as well as regaining control of areas that had fallen under the control of armed groups.
FARDC Says It Has Regained Control of Several Areas
In a statement, the FARDC said its forces had regained control of Malimba, Masango, Ruhua and Rubarati, areas located in the highlands of Uvira and Fizi.
The army said 15 fighters from M23 and Twirwaneho were killed during the operations, while six others surrendered to FARDC forces and were taken to Uvira.
The FARDC also said several weapons were seized during the fighting.
FARDC Reports Discovery of Mass Grave in Masango
In Masango, the FARDC said it had discovered a mass grave that may contain the bodies of civilians allegedly killed while the area was under the control of armed fighters.
However, the claim has not been independently verified. There was no independent evidence available to confirm the number of bodies believed to be buried at the site or when the deaths occurred.
Other Fighters Reportedly Retreat
The FARDC said continued military pressure forced opposing fighters to retreat toward Kashongo and Magunda, areas the army described as strategically important for access to the Minembwe area.
In another part of the Fizi highlands, the FARDC said it had also regained control of Kamimbi, Nagishashu and Irumba, in the Basimunyaka-Sud area.
The army said eight fighters were killed in the fighting in that area, while five others surrendered to government forces.
AFC/M23 Has Not Responded
At the time of publication, AFC/M23 had not issued a response to the figures or allegations made by the FARDC.
We sought comment from AFC/M23 political spokesperson Dr. Oscar Balinda regarding reports of fighters being killed or surrendering, as well as the areas the FARDC says it has retaken, but we were unable to reach him before publication.
Fighting between the FARDC and M23-linked fighters, along with allied armed groups, continues to be reported in the highlands of Fizi and Uvira, where insecurity remains a major concern in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The FARDC says its military operations will continue, with the stated objective of regaining control of territory, restoring state authority and protecting civilians.
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