Heavy fighting broke out Tuesday morning, November 4, in Minembwe, South Kivu Province, as clashes intensified between the Congolese army (FARDC), Burundian troops, local Wazalendo militias, and the Twirwaneho/AFC-M23 coalition.
According to local reports, the fighting centered around Mikenge, a strategic area long contested by various armed groups.
By midday, sources indicated that the FARDC and its Burundian and Wazalendo allies had seized control of Bilalombili, though gunfire and shelling were still ongoing by the time of reporting.
The escalation has heightened tensions in the highlands of Minembwe, an area frequently at the heart of regional instability involving Congolese and Burundian forces alongside local armed movements.
Residents reportedly fled toward nearby hills as clashes erupted, fearing renewed violence and reprisals.
The Twirwaneho/AFC-M23 coalition, which has been active in several parts of eastern Congo, has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the confrontation.
Meanwhile, local observers warn that the situation remains fluid and could further destabilize the region if fighting persists.
Further updates are expected as details continue to emerge from the conflict zone.