Fresh tensions are emerging within the FDLR/FOCA ranks following the mysterious disappearance of Major Bizabishaka, a senior intelligence figure believed to have played a powerful role inside the movement’s security structure.
According to information circulating from the Nganga area and relayed by RwandaTribune sources, Maj. Bizabishaka, who reportedly served as deputy leader within the FOCA intelligence department, is said to have been abducted by unidentified individuals.
The reports have sparked widespread speculation among local residents and observers familiar with the armed group’s internal operations. A member of civil society in the area claimed that information circulating locally suggests that “Maj. Bizabishaka may have been thrown into the Rushoga River,” although no independent confirmation has yet been provided.
His disappearance comes at a time when reports of mistrust, internal rivalries and leadership disputes inside FDLR structures have continued to surface. FOCA’s intelligence department is officially headed by Gen. Bgd Kimenyi Nyembo, but several sources claim that Maj. Bizabishaka handled many of the day-to-day intelligence activities and maintained strong influence within the organization.
Individuals familiar with the movement describe him as one of the closest allies of Gen. Omega, with some insiders reportedly referring to him as “Gen. Omega’s right-hand man.”
However, his growing influence allegedly created tensions among senior officers. Witnesses and insiders accuse Maj. Bizabishaka of playing a role in internal betrayals that reportedly led to the deaths, removals, or punishment of several high-ranking officials.
Among the names frequently mentioned is Gen. Brigade Secyungu Gabral, the former head of a training school for junior officers, who was reportedly “ambushed and killed.” Another officer, Col. Rutaganda Mazizi, is alleged to have “died after being poisoned.”
Several former insiders claim that many senior FDLR officers gradually came under surveillance or lost their positions because of accusations and divisions linked to Maj. Bizabishaka’s activities.
Some also allege that he contributed to tensions involving Gen. Ntawunguka Pacifique and other influential commanders.
The circumstances surrounding his disappearance have intensified concerns about security and internal stability within the armed movement. Analysts following developments in eastern Congo believe growing mistrust and leadership struggles may be contributing to a dangerous climate inside the organization.
So far, neither FDLR nor FOCA leadership has issued an official statement regarding the disappearance of Maj. Bizabishaka. Meanwhile, conflicting accounts continue to circulate from different sources, leaving many unanswered questions.
Residents near the area where the alleged abduction reportedly occurred say fear and uncertainty remain high, especially given long-standing allegations of internal purges and violent rivalries within FOCA’s intelligence circles.
As investigations and speculation continue, attention remains focused on whether Maj. Bizabishaka was abducted, killed, or caught in a deeper internal power struggle that could further destabilize the movement.
