Battle Between Wazalendo Militias Ignites in Eastern Congo

(MENAFN) Two groups of Wazalendo fighters, commanded by self-styled generals known only as Malaika and Nyakiliba, have been battling since September 17 for dominance over the key town of Mwenga in South Kivu, located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“At least eight individuals, including three non-combatants and five militia members, lost their lives and several others sustained injuries during confrontations related to toll roadblocks. These checkpoints charged steep fees ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 Congolese francs ($7 to $36) per passage, which many considered exorbitant. The situation intensified when authorities demanded the removal of these barriers,” reported Julius Byemba Kika, a member of civil society, to a news agency.

Stability was restored only after Nyakiliba retreated to Kigogo.

Efforts to reach government officials in Mwenga have been unsuccessful, but Foka Mike, the commander of the Wazalendo militia, confirmed the fatalities.

The two-day conflict in Mwenga resulted in extensive damage to property and increased insecurity in the area.

Residents of Mwenga are enduring yet another hardship. Already burdened by soaring food costs caused by the blocked RN2 highway and the ongoing conflict involving M23 rebel forces, the populace views the roadblocks as an added strain.

The region has long been plagued by violent disputes, including recent deadly confrontations in Muhuzi.

At the same time, in North Kivu province, intense clashes have erupted between Wazalendo troops and AFC/M23 rebels since Friday in the Osso Banyungu area of Masisi territory.

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