FARDC Accuses AFC/M23-RDF of Fresh Attacks on Walikale-Masisi Axis, Reports Burned Villages and New Displacement

FARDC's Sokola 1 Grand-Nord and Front Nord operational sector, through spokesman Lieutenant Marc Elongo, said Sunday, Sept 20, 2026 that AFC/M23-RDF forces carried out fresh attacks along the Walikale-Masisi axis, burning villages and destroying agricultural fields. The army said the attacks contradict commitments made under the Doha and Washington peace processes and reported new population displacement toward Walikale, without specifying a casualty count or precise damage assessment. North Kivu's military governor and operations commander, Major-General Somo Kakule Évariste, said FARDC "will continue to defend their positions and protect civilians" and would respond to any attack on its positions or on the civilian population. Neither AFC/M23 nor Rwanda had responded to the accusation as of publication.