AFC/M23 Reveals How Its Commandos Strike Kisangani and Return Undetected

The deputy spokesperson of AFC/M23, Oscar Balinda, has stated that the movement’s commando units have been conducting targeted operations near the city of Kisangani, striking strategic positions before returning safely to their bases.

Balinda explained that the commando teams are able to move close to the city, carry out attacks and withdraw without suffering losses. According to him, these operations are intended to counter threats against AFC/M23 fighters and territories under the group’s control.

His remarks come shortly after the group announced the loss of one of its senior figures, Willy Ngoma, who served as the movement’s military spokesperson. Ngoma reportedly died in drone strikes carried out by forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and their allies targeting M23 positions. The attacks were also reported to have affected areas inhabited by civilians.

Sources familiar with the situation claim that facilities linked to the operation of drones responsible for several strikes in eastern Congo are located in Kisangani, from where the unmanned aerial vehicles are allegedly launched.

AFC/M23 officials say the group has the capability to carry out operations inside cities even before gaining full control of them, with the aim of removing threats facing its fighters and civilians living in territories it administers.