A special operation led by Colonel Vianney Kanyamuhanda Kazarama, the AFC/M23 official responsible for mobilization and public outreach, has resulted in the capture of a senior Wazalendo commander and the voluntary surrender of another prominent fighter in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The operation took place in Nyabanira, an area located within the Binza grouping of Rutshuru Territory, where AFC/M23 forces have intensified security activities aimed at weakening armed groups operating in the region.
According to information released by AFC/M23 authorities, the operation led to the arrest of Ngabo Jean de Dieu, also known as Kadogo Murindahami Jean de Dieu. He was regarded as one of the leading figures within the Wazalendo forces and reportedly held the rank of Colonel within the movement.
His capture is being viewed as a significant development in ongoing efforts to dismantle armed networks that remain active in parts of Rutshuru and neighboring areas.
Beyond the arrest, the operation also prompted Captain Shukuru, another senior fighter, to voluntarily surrender to AFC/M23 authorities. Officials indicated that the decision was made willingly, marking another setback for armed groups operating in the area.
Security forces involved in the operation also seized a cache of weapons previously held by the fighters. The recovered arsenal included a PKM machine gun, two RPG rounds, and seven Sub-Machine Guns (SMGs), representing a notable weapons haul.
Observers following security developments in Rutshuru note that the removal of both experienced fighters and military equipment could reduce the operational capacity of armed groups and contribute to stabilization efforts in the region.
On June 4, Colonel Kazarama formally handed over the captured commander and the surrendered fighter to the territorial administration of Rutshuru for further processing.
They were received by Rutshuru Territorial Administrator Ephrem Kabasha, who praised the operation and described it as an important step toward restoring lasting security in Binza and surrounding communities.
“We thank our troops for the good work they have done. Step by step, we will fully control the security situation in the Binza Groupement so that peace returns permanently for the benefit of all citizens.” Kabasha said.
The administrator emphasized that security improvements remain a top priority and expressed confidence that continued operations would help restore stability for local residents.
Kabasha also called on remaining Wazalendo fighters and members of other armed groups still active in Rutshuru to lay down their weapons and join peaceful initiatives aimed at rebuilding the region.
The operation comes as AFC/M23 continues broader efforts to neutralize armed groups within territories under its control. Officials say the objective is to strengthen security conditions, facilitate the return of normal economic activity, and allow civilians to resume their daily lives without fear.
Residents of Binza and neighboring communities are closely watching these developments, hoping that such actions will contribute to reducing violence and opening the door to long-term peace in Rutshuru Territory and other conflict-affected areas of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The capture of Ngabo Jean de Dieu and the surrender of Captain Shukuru represent another significant chapter in AFC/M23’s ongoing campaign against armed groups, highlighting the movement’s determination to consolidate security and expand stability across the areas it administers.
