FARDC Recaptures Kazinga in Masisi Territory After Heavy Fighting with AFC/M23

Forces of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have regained control of Kazinga village in Masisi Territory after clashes with the AFC/M23 rebel movement, according to local sources.

The area, located in the Osso Banyungu sector, had fallen under the control of the AFC/M23 about two weeks ago after the group pushed government troops out of the strategic locality.

However, on Monday, Congolese government forces, supported by local militia groups known as Wazalendo, launched an offensive that resulted in the recapture of Kazinga following a day of intense fighting.

Residents and security sources said the clashes involved both heavy and light weapons, with exchanges of gunfire reported throughout the day before the rebels withdrew from the area.

The withdrawal from Kazinga comes as AFC/M23 fighters have also recently pulled out of nearby localities of Ndete and Buabo, which are located in the same zone.

The latest developments highlight the fluid and shifting nature of the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where control of villages frequently changes hands between government forces and armed groups.