FARDC Drone Strikes Target AFC/M23 Positions in Mindjendje

Walikale February 11, 2026 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) carried out drone strikes on positions held by the AFC/M23 rebellion in Mindjendje, a village near Mpety, in the Kisimba groupement of Walikale territory, North Kivu. According to local sources, the strikes were conducted on Sunday and Monday, targeting rebel positions in the area. Several fighters were reportedly wounded and evacuated to the Mweso General Referral Hospital for treatment. Independent sources based in Kalembe have also confirmed the aerial bombardments. The strikes come amid a renewed escalation of clashes between government forces and the AFC/M23, as fighting intensifies in parts of Walikale. The rebel movement is reportedly reinforcing its positions around Pinga, a locality considered strategically significant in the region. The latest developments signal a further deterioration of the security situation in North Kivu, where tensions remain high despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability.