According to AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, the assaults began on the night of Wednesday, August 27, 2025, when forces from the Congolese army (FARDC), the Burundian military, Imbonerakure militia, FDLR fighters, Mai Mai,Wazalendo militia, and foreign mercenaries launched attacks in Mikenke, Minembwe highlands, and parts of Kalehe Territory.
'Since the night of August 27, the coalition of Kinshasa government forces has been indiscriminately bombing heavily populated areas in Minembwe [Mikenke] and Kalehe [Katana, Kavumu, Katasomwa, Nyabibwe], using CH-4 drones and heavy weapons. The attacks are still ongoing,' Kanyuka said.
The MRDP-Twirwaneho movement confirmed that drones, allegedly operated by mercenaries, first struck Rugezi in southern Minembwe around 1:00 a.m., damaging telecommunication infrastructure.
Additional bombardments were reported in Kahololo village in the Itombwe mountains of Fizi Territory and in Uvira, with reports suggesting Kinshasa had issued direct orders to target Banyamulenge-inhabited villages in Minembwe.
These strikes follow earlier attacks in Kadasomwa on August 26â€"27 and in Minembwe on August 27, which AFC says resulted in significant civilian casualties.
AFC/M23 argued that the escalation proves President Félix Tshisekedi and his allies have chosen war instead of pursuing negotiations facilitated by Qatar.
The group also reaffirmed that it would continue to 'protect and defend civilians' in eastern DRC.
IGIHE
