Civilian Killing Highlights Fragile Security In Masisi After AFC/M23-Wazalendo Fighting

Masisi, August 14, 2026 - Armed men shot Jackson Niragire, a father of three, at his home in Kahira, also rendered Kashira, in the Bashali Mokoto grouping on the night of August 13-14.

Neighbours attempted to evacuate him toward a health facility at Kirumbu, but he died on the way. The motive and identity of the attackers were not established, adding to civilian fear in a territory marked by contested control.

The killing followed a fragile lull in southern Masisi after nearly a week of heavy fighting between AFC/M23 and Wazalendo forces that began on July 24. Exchanges of light and heavy weapons were concentrated around Kibabi I, Kibabi II and Ufamandu I.

Civilians fled Kasoko, Mushebere and nearby localities, with many seeking refuge in Ngungu. By around July 30, a precarious calm had returned to several affected villages, but residents remained fearful of renewed hostilities.