A statement issued by the spokesperson for the Sukola 2 military operations in South Kivu, Lt. Mbuyi Kalonji Reagan, claiming that FARDC forces have taken control of Minembwe Centre, continues to spark intense debate among observers, media outlets, and security analysts monitoring the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In the FARDC statement, it is said that government forces have reportedly taken Minembwe as part of an operation aimed at restoring state authority in the area, which is controlled by MRDP–Twirwaneho.
Information from residents and sources close to the fighting indicates that:
Minembwe has not yet come under FARDC control; instead, a large part of it remains under the control or influence of MRDP–Twirwaneho.
Heavy fighting continues between FARDC and this armed group, particularly in the areas of Lundu, Ruhinamavi, Bidegu, and Gakenke.
It is also reported that FARDC is operating alongside various armed groups, including Wazalendo and FDLR, as well as the Burundian army.
Early this morning, reports indicate that heavy clashes broke out in the Lundu area, where FARDC forces and their allies launched attacks against Banyamulenge communities, prompting MRDP–Twirwaneho to intervene.
Eyewitnesses say the fighting took place in the hills of Ruhinamavi, in the rugged terrain leading toward Bidegu, where both sides engaged in intense confrontations.
There are also reports that fighting is continuing in the Gakenke area, where residents are fleeing due to ongoing gunfire and shelling.
Although FARDC claims to have taken control of Minembwe, analysis of the conflict situation indicates that:
Large parts of the Minembwe highlands remain in an unstable and active combat environment.
Full control of the area is difficult to establish due to its mountainous terrain and complex access routes, which continue to pose challenges for both sides.
The announcement of the “capture of Minembwe” may have strategic military or political objectives, potentially aimed at projecting a symbolic victory that does not fully reflect the situation on the ground.
As of now, field reports indicate that Minembwe is not under FARDC control, and fighting is still ongoing in several parts of the area.
This contrasts with the official statement issued by the FARDC spokesperson, highlighting the continued complexity of the security situation in eastern DRC, where multiple armed actors remain in confrontation.
