The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) has reported that nine peacekeepers were injured during ongoing clashes with M23 rebel forces in the town of Sake. The injuries occurred as part of efforts to support the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) in repelling rebel advances in the region.
In a statement released on January 24, 2025, MONUSCO confirmed that its Force Intervention Brigade (FIB), a specialized combat unit, has been actively engaging with M23 as part of a joint operation dubbed “Operation Springbok 3.” The mission noted that its forces targeted M23 positions in Sake over the previous 48 hours and stationed equipment on the outskirts of Goma to protect the city from potential rebel incursions.
The clashes have so far resulted in four MONUSCO soldiers being injured on January 23 and an additional five on January 24. MONUSCO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Congolese forces in securing the region.
M23 rebels, however, issued warnings on January 22, 23, and 24, cautioning MONUSCO against attacking their positions. The group claimed they were acting in self-defense and accused MONUSCO and its allies of targeting them unjustly. According to M23, the coalition opposing them includes FARDC, the FDLR (a group linked to perpetrators of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide), local militias known as Wazalendo, and European mercenaries. They also accused South African Development Community (SADC) forces under SAMIDRC of collaborating in the operations.
The allegations and clashes come as violence escalates in eastern Congo, where multiple armed groups continue to destabilize the region. The conflict has led to widespread displacement, severe humanitarian challenges, and increasing international concern about the situation’s potential spillover effects.
MONUSCO’s efforts to stabilize the region face significant challenges, with the recent clashes highlighting the complex and volatile nature of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
