The M23 rebel movement has raised alarm over what it describes as widespread and targeted violence against Banyamulenge civilians in Minembwe, neighbouring areas, and across the High Plateaus of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, following its recent withdrawal from the city of Uvira.
In a statement issued on Monday, Lawrence Kanyuka, the head of M23’s communication department, said the group’s withdrawal has been followed by heavy militarisation of the High Plateaus.
He alleged that large numbers of troops, heavy weaponry and operational command centres have been deployed by forces allied to the Kinshasa government.
According to Kanyuka, the forces involved include the Congolese army (FARDC), the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), Mai-Mai Wazalendo militias, foreign mercenaries, and elements of Burundi’s National Defence Force.
He claimed these forces are operating in a coordinated manner and that their actions have had severe consequences for civilian populations.
The M23 spokesperson alleged that over the past week, several densely populated villages have come under repeated attacks, including aerial bombardments involving armed drones and Sukhoi-25 fighter aircraft.
He further claimed that the group’s withdrawal from Uvira left the area vulnerable, enabling coalition forces to impose a blockade around Minembwe.
Kanyuka said the alleged blockade has restricted the movement of people and goods, while civilian infrastructure, including homes, community facilities and commercial premises, has reportedly been destroyed.
He added that the full scale of civilian casualties and material damage remains unclear due to an internet shutdown imposed by authorities, as well as the displacement of large numbers of civilians who have fled into nearby forests for safety.
The statement linked the latest incidents to earlier attacks reported since January 22, 2026, in areas including Mukoko, Gakenke, Point Zero, Rugezi and Biziba, alongside repeated incursions in Kundondo, Mitamba and Kirungwa.
The rebel movement also warned of increased troop concentrations and military activity in Rwitsankuku, Mulima Kananda, Fizi and Baraka, which it claims are being used as operational hubs.
Kanyuka alleged that combat drones and explosive devices are increasingly being used in populated areas, with women and children among those most affected.
M23 further claimed that the escalation follows an alleged breach of a ceasefire agreement by the Kinshasa government, despite ongoing negotiations in Doha.
“We cannot remain passive in the face of systematic violence against civilians,” Kanyuka said, calling on the international community to urgently intervene. The group urged international partners to activate mechanisms aimed at halting what it described as mass atrocities and called for the withdrawal of government and allied forces from Minembwe and surrounding areas to allow civilians to regain security, freedom of movement and access to basic needs.
