Just hours after the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) released an official statement condemning the continued offensives by the M23/AFC and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), Congolese forces launched a targeted airstrike on the Kigoma airstrip in Walikale-centre. Multiple sources confirm that a military drone and a Sukhoi-25 fighter jet were used in the operation, which destroyed an aircraft that had just arrived from Kavumu Airfield, near Bukavu. The plane was reportedly used to transport fighters and supplies for the M23/AFC rebels and their RDF allies.
According to field sources, the aircraft was preparing to take off when it was struck first by drone fire, then by a Sukhoi-25 airstrike around 10 a.m. local time. A nearby vehicle was also destroyed. The aircraft had been conducting rotations for six days, supplying the rebels who took control of Walikale-centre last week.
A provisional toll provided by local sources indicates that seven people were killed in the strike, including two white individuals, believed to be the pilots of the destroyed aircraft. The identities and nationalities of the deceased have not been officially confirmed, and the FARDC has not yet stated casualties.
This was the second strike on the Kigoma airstrip, which had already been targeted the previous Saturday following the aircraft’s initial landing. The destruction of the plane marks a significant blow to the logistical supply chain of the M23/AFC, who have been relying on air support due to the region’s isolation and lack of road access.
These strikes come amid heightened tension both militarily and diplomatically. In a March 26 press release (No. 10), Major General Sylvain Ekenge, FARDC spokesperson, denounced the M23/AFC and RDF for continuing to fortify their positions despite announcing a unilateral ceasefire and withdrawal. FARDC stated it had so far refrained from offensive operations to give peace efforts a chance but reaffirmed its right to defend civilians and national sovereignty.
The March 23 announcement by the M23/AFC of a troop repositioning in Walikale-centre and nearby areas was welcomed by Rwanda. However, Congolese authorities argue the group has only intensified its deployments, particularly by air via Kavumu Airfield near Bukavu.
Meanwhile, the UN Security Council met in New York today to discuss the situation in the DRC. Special Representative Bintou Keita briefed members on the latest MONUSCO report. The DRC, Rwanda—represented by Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe—and Angola also participated in the session under Article 37 of the Council’s provisional rules.
On the ground, the Congolese army is reinforcing its presence, notably in Boboro (24 km from Walikale) and Biruwe, where it maintains a forward base. Drones were reported circling Walikale throughout the morning, suggesting sustained aerial monitoring.
As of now, neither the FARDC nor the M23/AFC has issued a formal statement about the strike. However, independent sources and witness reports confirm the aircraft’s destruction and the deaths of seven individuals, dealing a serious blow to the rebel coalition’s logistical network.
