AFC/M23 fighters spotted relocating across Walikale Territory

Movements of fighters from the AFC/M23 rebel group were observed on Thursday, March 26, across several areas of Walikale Territory in North Kivu, according to local and security sources.

The troop movements were reported notably in Minjenje and Mpety, located in the Kisimba grouping, as well as in Kanune within the Ikobo grouping. Sources indicated that an initial convoy of fighters, along with their equipment, was first seen passing through Minjenje and Mpety, particularly in the Banakindi area.

Eyewitnesses in Kalembe reported seeing the combatants advancing in mixed formations, with some traveling in vehicles while others moved on foot. These accounts were corroborated by both administrative and security officials, who confirmed the movements while noting that a small number of fighters remained behind in the affected areas.

Similar redeployments were also recorded in Kanune. According to local authorities and security sources, the rebels departed the town in the afternoon, heading toward Miriki, near the Lubero Territory. This movement appears to align with recent withdrawals by AFC/M23 forces from certain positions in Lubero in recent days.