Gunfire from DRC kills nine in Rubavu, over 600 relocated #rwanda #RwOT

Additionally, over 600 residents living near the border have been relocated to a camp in Nyabihu District for safety.

Fighting in the area has intensified since the capture of Goma by the M23 rebel group.

FARDC, alongside allied groups such as the FDLR terrorist group and Wazalendo militia, has been firing across the Rwandan border.

Rwanda's military reported intercepting some projectiles, but stray bullets resulted in casualties and injuries.

Speaking to RBA, Mukuralinda confirmed the death toll had risen to nine.

Earlier, Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga told IGIHE that 35 people had been injured by gunfire from FARDC coalition, with some in critical condition.

Mukuralinda also reported that 681 residents near the border fled to avoid the gunfire and are now being housed at the Kijote Camp in Bigogwe Sector, Nyabihu District. Additionally, five houses in Rubavu District were damaged.

Despite the tension, Mukuralinda assured residents in Rubavu of their safety, emphasizing that the RDF is actively protecting the population. He noted that gunfire heard on Monday had significantly subsided.

Addressing rumors circulating on social media about FARDC troops allegedly crossing into Rwanda, Mukuralinda dismissed these claims.

'There's been misinformation suggesting that FARDC, FDLR, and Wazalendo forces crossed the Rwandan border, causing destruction and taking control of some administratice offices. None of this is true. The situation is under control, and Rwanda's security forces are ensuring the safety of the population,' he said.

He clarified that any FARDC soldiers seen in Rwanda had surrendered with their weapons and were in the custody of the RDF.

Mukuralinda also highlighted Rwanda's ongoing support for refugees fleeing Goma. So far, over 1,200 Congolese refugees have crossed into Rwanda and have been relocated to the Rugerero Transit Camp.

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to reopen schools in Rubavu, which were temporarily closed due to the conflict. Authorities aim to reassure students and resume classes, with schools expected to reopen by Wednesday.

Five houses in Rubavu District were reportedly damaged by gunfire.

The Deputy Spokesperson of the Rwandan Government, Alain Mukuralinda, has confirmed that nine Rwandans in Rubavu District were killed by gunfire from the coalition fighting alongside Congolese army.

IGIHE

Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/gunfire-from-drc-kills-nine-in-rubavu-over-600-relocated