In a statement issued on January 15, 2026, the group's spokesperson, Col Kamasa Ndakize Welcome, alleged that FARDC troops, supported by Burundian forces, FDLR rebels, and Wazalendo militias, launched coordinated ground and aerial attacks in the Point-Zéro area, approximately 10 km from Minembwe Commune.
Col Ndakize claimed the assaults deliberately targeted civilian areas, including Rwitsankuku and surrounding villages, destroying infrastructure, forcing residents to flee, and endangering innocent lives.
In response, he said Twirwaneho fighters repelled the ground offensive, shot down one enemy drone that was striking populated areas, dismantled opposing positions, and seized strategic heights, including Mount Baruta, a position long used, according to the group, to shell civilian zones.
MRDP-Twirwaneho emphasized that it will not tolerate alleged abuses by government-aligned forces and reiterated its commitment to protecting Banyamulenge civilians and their property.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/mrdp-twirwaneho-claims-shoot-down-of-fardc-drone-in-south-kivu
