The clashes reportedly lasted several hours and were triggered after the Wazalendo allegedly shot and killed a local official in Kamituga over a financial dispute.

The fighting took place in the city of Kamituga, located in the Mwenga Territory of South Kivu, an area controlled by both FARDC and the Wazalendo group.

Small arms and heavy weapons were reportedly used, resulting in multiple casualties, including a police officer with the rank of Captain Kangela, according to information released after the clashes.

As a result, on the morning of Friday, October 10, residents of Kamituga  mostly youth and children  took to the streets in protests, demanding that the Wazalendo leave the city.

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This is not the first time clashes and shootings have occurred between FARDC and the Wazalendo, as such conflicts appear to have become a recurring problem whenever disagreements arise.

Some local residents have called on the M23 group to restore order, citing the ongoing inability of both FARDC and Wazalendo forces to maintain security in the area.

The M23 has repeatedly stated that it will not tolerate activities that undermine the safety and freedom of civilians, pledging to intervene to restore order and “liberate Congo,” as the group describes it.

Recently, President Félix Tshisekedi again accused Rwanda and its president of contributing to instability in eastern Congo, although Rwanda and its officials have consistently denied such claims.