AFC/M23 Rebels Launch Attacks on FARDC in Mpombi and Iteya

Pinga, Walikale January 21, 2026 - Violent clashes erupted on Wednesday morning, January 21, between AFC/M23 rebels and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), supported by the Wazalendo, in the localities of Mpombi and Iteya, part of the Kisimba group in Walikale territory, North Kivu. The rebels launched simultaneous attacks against army positions starting around 10:00 a.m., with heavy and light weapons fire reported, plunging the local population into widespread fear. The administrative secretary of the Kisimba group, Lavie Changwi, confirmed the clashes and said that civilians were forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in the surrounding forests. “Mpombi and Iteya are key strongholds for the protection of Pinga. The situation is very worrying due to the intensity of the fighting,” he stated. These towns, held by FARDC and Wazalendo forces, occupy a mountainous area overlooking Pinga and are considered crucial for the town’s defense. This attack comes amid an already fragile security context. In December 2025, authorities were alerted to the strengthening of rebel positions in Mpety, considered the main AFC/M23 stronghold in the Pinga region. Reports indicated that rebels were preparing offensives targeting Pinga. In early January 2026, the rebels attempted to seize Mpombi and Iteya but were repelled by FARDC forces, retreating to their rear base in Mpety. Following Wednesday's assaults, no official casualty figures have been released. The situation remains tense and unpredictable in the combat zones around Pinga.