FARDC Colonel Joseph Nganzo Killed in Fierce Clashes in Minembwe
Colonel Joseph Nganzo Olikwa Tipi, a senior officer in the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), was killed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, during fierce fighting in the Minembwe area of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to local and security sources.
Colonel Nganzo, who served as the deputy commander of FARDC’s 12th Brigade based in Minembwe, had previously commanded the 212th Brigade. He was reportedly killed in the Mikenke area of Minembwe Commune amid ongoing clashes between FARDC and allied forces, and armed groups including AFC/M23 and the local militia Twirwaneho.
Sources said the colonel was leading troops from an elite FARDC unit known as “Hiboux” when his convoy was ambushed. He was allegedly shot dead by a sniper following the ambush, as hostilities intensified in and around Minembwe.
Colonel Nganzo’s death comes while he was under sanctions imposed by the European Union. The EU had accused him of responsibility for attacks carried out by troops under his command against civilians in Minembwe, including allegations of sexual violence against women, between June and December 2021.
