The M23 rebels have continued to gain more control and influence in North Kivu province after conquering new villages in the Walikale territory which is the largest part of the DR Congo’s eastern region.
In recent hours, the M23 have taken control of Mpeti after intense fighting with the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) on Monday.
The M23 are now edged closer to Pinga, the capital of the Kisimba group, another strategic part of North Kivu.
Since the start of the fighting in the Walikale territory, about ten villages including Nsuka, Kalembe, Kalonge, Ihula, Lulimbi, Banamulindwa, Katobo, Makenge have all fallen under the M23’s control.
The FARDC and its supporting groups have so failed to battle with the M23 who have strengthened its front lines with new reinforcements coming from Mweso and Rutshuru to meet other elements in Kalembe.