Armed attack on Kiwanja-Goma road leaves one seriously injured

Rutshuru, March 25, 2026 - A new armed attack targeting civilians was reported on the Kiwanja-Goma road, a key route crossing Virunga National Park, highlighting persistent insecurity in the area. According to local sources, a public transport vehicle was ambushed by armed men between Buvunga and Bugomba. The attackers opened fire to force the vehicle to stop before robbing passengers of their belongings. The driver was seriously wounded after being shot in the jaw and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Rutshuru for treatment. Another passenger was briefly abducted during the incident but later released. The attack is part of a growing pattern of insecurity along this strategic road. Just a day earlier, two separate robberies were reported in the same corridor, including one targeting funds intended for teachers and another involving motorcycle taxi drivers and their passengers. This road, essential for trade and civilian movement in North Kivu, has remained highly vulnerable due to the presence and influence of armed groups, including areas under AFC/M23 control. The situation continues to expose travelers to significant risks despite its economic importance. Local authorities and community leaders are calling for increased vigilance among road users, while residents stress the urgent need for stronger security measures to ensure safe movement and protect civilians in the region.