AFC/M23 Rebel Position Targeted by FARDC Airstrikes

Kasopo, Walikale, DRC January 19, 2026 - The AFC/M23 rebel position located on Mount Kasopo, on the border between the Kisimba and Ikobo groups in Walikale territory (North Kivu), was targeted early Monday morning, January 19, by FARDC airstrikes. According to local accounts, a Congolese army drone flew over the area throughout the night from Sunday to Monday. Around 4:00 a.m., residents of surrounding villages were awakened by bomb explosions dropped by the drone on the position. Last December, this area was the scene of fierce clashes between AFC/M23 rebels and the Wazalendo of the Coalition of Movements for Change (CMC). Since the beginning of 2026, this is the first rebel position targeted by FARDC airstrikes in the Walikale territory.