MINEMBWE, DR CONGO — Government forces have tactically repositioned troops in the Minembwe highlands after a coalition of Twirwaneho, Red Tabara and M23/RDF rebels retook several strategic positions following days of intense fighting, military and local sources said.
The repositioning, described as a tactical move to avoid civilian casualties and regroup, comes as the rebel coalition consolidates control over key areas in the highlands, which have been a flashpoint for violence in South Kivu province.
Local sources reported that the rebels, including the Twirwaneho militia, the Burundian Red Tabara group, and the M23 movement allegedly backed by Rwanda, launched coordinated attacks that overwhelmed FARDC positions. The army has not officially commented on the extent of the territorial losses.
The Minembwe region has seen repeated clashes between armed groups and the Congolese army, with the government accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels. Rwanda denies the allegations. The situation remains volatile, with humanitarian concerns mounting for displaced civilians.
