The Burundi National Defense Force (BNDF) is reported to be actively participating in attacks against Banyamulenge communities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the Congo River Alliance (AFC/M23).
Since the night of Wednesday, August 27, coalition forces of the Kinshasa regime—including FARDC, FDLR, Mai-Mai Wazalendo militias, mercenaries, Imbonerakure, and the BNDF—have been conducting air and artillery strikes on densely populated areas in Minembwe (Mikenke) and Kalehe (Katana, Kavumu, Katasomwa, Nyabibwe).
The attacks reportedly involve CH-4 drones, kamikaze drones, and heavy artillery, and are ongoing.
AFC/M23 Spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, condemned the violence and highlighted Burundi’s direct involvement.
He said, “The Burundi National Defense Force is actively participating in these attacks against our Banyamulenge communities.
These are targeted assaults on civilians, and they amount to ethnic cleansing. We call on the international community to intervene immediately to stop this aggression.”
The AFC/M23 reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and defending civilian populations in the affected areas.
Kanyuka emphasized that the coalition will continue to resist attacks while urging Burundi and other foreign forces to withdraw from Congolese territory.
Analysts warn that Burundi’s participation marks a dangerous escalation in the eastern DRC conflict, raising concerns about regional stability and the potential for broader cross-border clashes. Humanitarian groups are closely monitoring the situation as displacement and civilian casualties mount.
The AFC/M23’s statement illustrates fears that the ongoing campaign is targeted at displacing the Banyamulenge population, further complicating the security and humanitarian landscape in the Great Lakes region.