The strategic city of Nzibira, located in the Walungu territory of South Kivu in DRC came under the control of the M23 rebels this Sunday, September 21, following violent clashes with the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), supported by the Wazalendo fighters.
On Sunday morning, residents fleeing told UN Radio that the M23 launched several assaults against positions held by the FARDC and its partners, the Wazalendo fighters.
Fighting intensified in several surrounding villages, including Cisaza, Cibanda, Muyange, Karhuliza and Kalongo, causing massive displacement of the local population, witnesses report.
Before seizing the city, the rebels reportedly carried out sustained bombardments, including the use of armored vehicles, according to sources.
The Wazalendo are talking about a strategic withdrawal of their forces aimed at preserving the lives of civilians.
The city of Nzibira is of particular importance in this area, known for its mineral wealth in cassiterite and gold. For the FARDC, this city was a key point in their fight against armed groups in the region. Its loss is considered a major operational setback by local forces.
Elsewhere, in the neighboring province of North Kivu, the FARDC intensified its offensives this Sunday, pounding several rebel positions in the territories of Masisi and Walikale.
On Saturday, September 20, military officials from the 3rd Defense Zone had already denounced a series of targeted attacks carried out by the RDF/AFC/M23 coalition against several localities in North and South Kivu, highlighting the seriousness of the security situation in these provinces.
