The AFC/M23 coalition, which is opposed to the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, said that on August 17, 2026, FARDC forces, the FDLR, and other armed groups allied with the Kinshasa government launched simultaneous attacks in several areas, including Kalehe Territory and the Minembwe front.
AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the coalition reported that the attacks involved the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), the FDLR, Wazalendo armed groups, foreign mercenaries, and the Burundi National Defence Force (FDNB).
AFC/M23 said that from 7:50 a.m., simultaneous attacks were launched in densely populated areas of Katare, Tushunguti, Nyamugari and Kivoka, all located in Kalehe Territory.
The group added that from 10:00 a.m., the forces intensified their attacks, shelling the areas of Nyaruhinga and Mukoko along the Minembwe front.
According to AFC/M23, the attacks involved the use of 120mm mortars and KT-6 drones.
The group called on Congolese citizens and the international community to pay attention to the severity of the attacks and what it described as their repeated occurrence.
AFC/M23 claimed that the attacks resulted in civilian deaths, destroyed homes, schools and other civilian infrastructure, and forced entire families to flee their homes.
The group reiterated its commitment to protecting and maintaining the security of civilian populations.
