The rebel group AFC/M23 has accused the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and their allies of carrying out deadly drone strikes targeting civilian areas in South Kivu.
According to AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, the attacks occurred overnight between March 21 and 22, 2026, in Fizi Territory. He stated that kamikaze drones were used to strike several locations, including Gakenke, Kalingi, and the Minembwe trading center.
Kanyuka alleged that the strikes were carried out indiscriminately, resulting in civilian casualties and significant destruction of property. He claimed that several people were killed, while others were forced to flee their homes due to the violence.
“These suicide drones targeted civilians blindly, killing people, destroying property, and displacing many residents,” Kanyuka said.
He emphasized that the attacks hit densely populated areas, causing widespread fear and psychological trauma among local communities.
The spokesperson also called on Congolese citizens to remain vigilant and accused the international community of inaction despite what he described as ongoing atrocities.
“AFC/M23 calls on Congolese citizens to stay alert in the face of these attacks. They are organized and deliberate, yet the international community continues to remain silent,” he added.
The Congolese government has not yet issued an official response to these allegations.
