Security - 23 February 2026
Looting in Kateku Village Attributed to AFC/M23 Rebels
Kinshasa, February 13, 2026 - The village of Kateku, in the Ikobo group of Walikale territory, North Kivu, experienced systematic looting on the night of Thursday, February 13, local sources report. Armed men reportedly stormed the village while residents were asleep, surrounding the area before carrying out a methodical theft operation.
Witnesses stated that the looters went house to house, stealing livestock, cell phones, money, and other valuables. Residents blamed AFC/M23 rebels, who maintain control over parts of the region.
Following the attack, the assailants retreated to an unknown location, leaving behind a traumatized and impoverished population. By Friday morning, fear and despair dominated the village, according to local reports.
In response to the resurgence of violence, several residents are considering leaving Kateku to seek safety, fearing further attacks in the coming days.
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