A new wave of violence has swept across eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as fierce fighting broke out between AFC/M23 fighters and FARDC troops backed by Wazalendo forces in Buhimba, a strategic area of Masisi Territory in North Kivu Province.
According to reports from local sources, the confrontation began late Sunday night and continued into Monday morning, June 1, 2026. Residents described sustained exchanges involving both heavy and light weapons, with gunfire echoing across surrounding communities for hours.
Sources from the area indicate that the government coalition launched an offensive against AFC/M23 positions in Buhimba, located within the Osso Banyungu sector. FARDC and its allied forces are reportedly attempting to push AFC/M23 fighters out of the area and regain control of key positions.
The latest confrontation comes shortly after renewed hostilities in Kibati, Walikale Territory, where rival forces have also been engaged in combat over recent days, highlighting the fragile security situation across North Kivu.
As fighting intensifies, another significant development has emerged from Masisi. General Mutayomba, a prominent commander associated with the Nyatura armed movement, was wounded during recent clashes in Ngululu, an area located in Nyamaboko I Groupement.
Regional sources say Mutayomba was initially evacuated to medical facilities in Beni for emergency treatment before authorities decided to transfer him to Kinshasa for specialized care.
On May 31, 2026, Manzi Willy, the AFC/M23-appointed Vice Governor of North Kivu, confirmed that Mutayomba was receiving treatment in the Congolese capital.
Manzi accused the Nyatura commander of involvement in serious abuses against civilians in Masisi, including killings, looting, destruction of property, livestock theft, and the burning of homes, particularly in the Kinigi area during previous military operations.
Mutayomba has also been accused of involvement in mineral exploitation activities within Masisi, while reports suggest that his wife resides in Kinshasa.
Founded in 2010, the Nyatura movement presents itself as a force defending Congolese Hutu communities. Over the years, multiple reports have linked elements of the movement to cooperation with FDLR, including military training and joint operations.
Several Nyatura factions currently operate across North Kivu, including Nyatura Domi, Nyatura John Love, Nyatura Kasongo, Nyatura Jean-Marie, Nyatura Kigingi, Nyatura Gatuza, Nyatura Kalume, and Nyatura Kavumbi, each named after its respective commander.
A United Nations human rights report previously stated that Nyatura fighters collaborated with FDLR during attacks targeting Tembo communities in 2012.
No official casualty figures have yet been released regarding the ongoing fighting in Buhimba. However, local residents report growing displacement as civilians flee combat zones in search of safer locations.
Security analysts warn that the renewed clashes in both Masisi and Walikale could further complicate efforts aimed at restoring stability in eastern Congo, where armed conflict, humanitarian crises, and political tensions continue to challenge prospects for lasting peace.
