13 Wazalendo Fighters Killed in Mugunga Attack

Goma, North Kivu March 16, 2026 - At least thirteen Wazalendo fighters were killed and three captured during an overnight attack in the Mugunga neighborhood in western Goma, according to AFC/M23 officials. The Wazalendo militiamen, coming from Virunga National Park, reportedly entered the city with the aim of looting population property, especially food supplies. Clashes with AFC/M23 patrols triggered an exchange of heavy and light weapons fire, causing widespread fear among residents. Residents reported a restless night, with a bomb explosion at the CCLK roundabout damaging shops and bars and causing a fire. Witnesses described the incident as terror-inducing, reflecting the growing security concerns in Goma and surrounding areas. The attack comes amid ongoing tensions following recent drone strikes on the city, which killed three people, including a French UNICEF employee. AFC/M23 and the government have publicly blamed each other for the drone strikes, while the Paris anti-terrorism prosecutor's office has opened an investigation. The security situation in Goma remains highly volatile, with residents and authorities on alert after the escalation of violence.