Clashes break out between FARDC and Wazalendo in Baraka
On Friday, gunfire was reported in the town of Baraka, following two days during which Congolese government forces had fled Uvira and set up camp there.
The morning shootings were reportedly caused by a misunderstanding between government troops, FARDC, and the Wazalendo militia, who were fighting together.
According to reports from ACTUALITE.CD, Wazalendo attempted to seize weapons from government soldiers, sparking the confrontation.
Baraka, located in the Fizi Territory about 80 km from Uvira, became a refuge for Congolese government forces and the South Kivu provincial administration on Wednesday after AFC/M23 captured Uvira.
The gunfire occurred in the Mongemonge area of Katanga Commune and lasted for an entire hour.
A local source told ACTUALITE.CD: “We are hearing continuous gunfire. The Wazalendo tried to take weapons from FARDC soldiers, but they failed.”
Authorities from the South Kivu provincial administration, who had relocated from Bukavu to Uvira and then to Baraka, urged residents to remain calm.
Jean-Jacques Elakano, Deputy Vice-Governor of South Kivu, stated that AFC/M23 rebels would never control territory in Fizi.
Clashes between Wazalendo and FARDC are common, often arising when factions attempt to assert control over areas or when Wazalendo fail to follow military regulations.
Tags:
