Two Wazalendo Commanders Arrested in Walikale for “Uncivil and Anti-Patriotic” Acts

Walikale, North Kivu March 16, 2026 - The General Staff of the 34th Military Region announced the arrest of two Wazalendo commanders accused of indiscipline and acts of violence severely affecting civilians. The arrested leaders are Kirikicho Mirimba, alias Mwana Mayi, of the COPACO (Coalition of Patriots in Congo) movement, and Musubao Kalimba, alias Kasilasi. Military authorities cited their “uncivil and anti-patriotic behavior,” which contradicts the mission of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP). The commanders have been engaged in fratricidal clashes for nearly 17 months, with serious consequences for both their groups and the civilian population. Despite mediation efforts by traditional authorities and local leaders, confrontations continued. The most recent clashes, between February 15-18, 2026, in the Tushunguti and Zirhalo areas of the Buhavu chiefdom in Kalehe territory, South Kivu, resulted in 14 civilian deaths, 7 serious injuries, 7 cases of sexual violence, and numerous instances of looting. The army stated that these actions have strayed from the VDP’s original mission. Both commanders, described as repeat offenders, will now answer to competent authorities under the jurisdiction of the 34th Military Region.