The security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to deteriorate as fierce clashes persist across parts of Masisi Territory in North Kivu Province, forcing civilians to flee and fueling fresh speculation surrounding the fate of a senior Wazalendo commander.
Heavy fighting has been reported along the strategic Loashi–Burora axis, where AFC/M23 forces have been battling a coalition consisting of the Congolese army (FARDC), Wazalendo fighters and FDLR elements. Residents say intense gunfire and explosions erupted during the night and continued into the following day, prompting waves of displacement across nearby communities.
The Loashi–Burora corridor remains one of the most contested areas in Masisi due to its military significance and its role in connecting several key localities. Both sides have been seeking to secure control of the route, resulting in repeated confrontations over recent weeks.
As fighting intensified, civilians from villages near the frontline began moving toward safer areas, including Nyabiondo. Transportation between Masisi Centre and surrounding communities has also been disrupted due to growing insecurity.
Amid the ongoing clashes, social media platforms have been flooded with claims that General Mutayomba, a prominent figure within the Wazalendo movement, may have been killed during recent combat operations in Masisi.
The reports remain unverified. At the time of publication, no military authority, government institution or independent organization had officially confirmed the alleged death.
However, the speculation gained further attention after Manzi Willy, the Vice Governor of North Kivu under the AFC/M23 administration, referenced the reports on his X account, formerly known as Twitter, where he indicated that the information was accurate according to his statements posted online.
No official casualty figures have been released regarding the latest battles, and control of several contested positions remains unclear. As military operations continue, thousands of civilians remain caught between rival forces, uncertain about when stability may return to the region.
