The M23 Rebel Group have gained control of two new territories in the province of North Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo following clashes with the Congolese army (FARDC).
Violent clashes between the M23 and the FARDC broke out on Thursday evening in the territories of Miriki and Kimaka with the former managing to seize the two localities at the end of the conquest.
According to several civil society sources, residents of the two localities have since fled after the rebel attack which happened at around three o’clock in the morning.
Colonel Alain Kiwewa, administrator of Lubero territory, confirmed that fighting is continuing around Miriki and Kimaka.
He also reported that the rebels have dropped several bombs, hitting Kanyabayonga and Kirumba where a provisional report indicates that five people have died, including a child and several others left injured.
