AFC/M23 Claims Drone Strike on Kisangani Airport

Kisangani DRC 4 February 2026 - The AFC/M23 coalition confirmed it carried out a drone attack on Bangoka Airport in Kisangani, Tshopo Province, during the night of 31 January-1 February 2026. Spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka said the operation targeted drone launch sites used in North Kivu and South Kivu, accusing DRC government forces of using them to attack civilians. “AFC/M23 will not remain passive while civilians are targeted. Wherever crimes are committed, we will strike evil at its source,” Kanyuka said. The group called on the Kinshasa government to choose between peace and war, urging respect for the ceasefire. It also rejected any blame directed at third parties, claiming the equipment used had been seized at Goma and Kavumu airports, and warned that the government is not the only actor capable of using drones.

Faits rapportés

Kisangani DRC 4 February 2026 - The AFC/M23 coalition confirmed it carried out a drone attack on Bangoka Airport in Kisangani, Tshopo Province, during the night of 31 January-1 February 2026. Spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka said the operation targeted drone launch sites used in North Kivu and South Kivu, accusing DRC government forces of using them to attack civilians. “AFC/M23 will not remain passive while civilians are targeted. Wherever crimes are committed, we will strike evil at its source,” Kanyuka said. The group called on the Kinshasa government to choose between peace and war, urging respect for the ceasefire. It also rejected any blame directed at third parties, claiming the equipment used had been seized at Goma and Kavumu airports, and warned that the government is not the only actor capable of using drones.