Rutshuru: violent fighting between the Wazalendo CMC-FAPC and the AFC-M23 in Lusuli

Violent clashes between AFC-M23 fighters and Wazalendo elements were reported on the afternoon of Thursday, May 28, 2026 in the village of Lusuli, located between Mirangi and Kyaghala, in the Mutanda group, in the Rutshuru territory.

According to local sources, fighting broke out around 1 pm following an incursion by the Wazalendo into the village. They reportedly attacked AFC-M23 positions after a targeted ambush.

Heavy and small-caliber gunfire was heard for several hours, causing a massive displacement of people towards Kyaghala, Mirangi and into the bush.

The civilian casualty figures remain unknown. However, several houses were reportedly burned and destroyed by Wazalendo elements of the CMC-FAPC group.

"It's been terrible since 1 pm There are clashes between the M23 and the CMC-FAPC in Lusuli. The fighting started at the small market. The Wazalendo attacked the AFC-M23 soldiers near the village. The entire population fled in different directions. Residents are still in refuge areas ," a local source confided anonymously.

The clashes lasted for several hours into the evening. Traffic between Lusuli, Kyaghala, and Mirangi remained paralyzed.
Armed elements of the CMC-FAPC were reported in the northern part of the village, while those of the AFC-M23 were visible in other areas of Lusuli.

The same sources indicate that the situation remains confused in the area, with each side trying to push back the other.
It should be noted that these villages, located in the same locality, have been facing persistent insecurity for several months, negatively impacting the lives of the population in this part of the Bwito chiefdom.