AFC/M23 Reports Drone Strikes on Civilian Areas
The AFC/M23 coalition has announced that on the morning of 7 April 2026, forces supported by the government of the Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo launched heavy attacks in several areas of South Kivu.
According to AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, the attacks targeted the area of Mikenke and other densely populated locations in the Minembwe commune. He stated that drone strikes hit these areas, causing civilian casualties, destroying homes, and killing livestock.
More Attacks Reported in Kalehe Territory
Kanyuka further explained that government forces also carried out additional attacks in Lumbishi, Katale, and Tushunguti in Kalehe Territory. He alleged that densely populated areas were targeted, which he said violates international humanitarian law protecting civilians.
Attacks Follow Tshisekedi’s Statement
The reported attacks come after President Félix Tshisekedi told Congolese citizens during celebrations marking the country’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup that government forces would soon reclaim all territories seized by the AFC/M23.
AFC/M23 Calls for International Attention
The AFC/M23 coalition has called on the Congolese people and the international community to witness what it described as ongoing crimes committed against civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The coalition, which controls several areas in North Kivu and South Kivu, said it remains prepared to fulfill what it describes as its responsibility to protect civilians using all possible means if the attacks continue.
