DRC : a new local rebel group is said to have allied itself with the M23

The Lombi community of Tshopo province sent a memorandum to the provincial governor, expressing concerns about a likely coalition between a local rebel group and the March 23 Movement (M23). The Lombi are demanding reinforced intervention from the Congolese army to secure their territory, bordering Lubero in North Kivu, where the M23 is active.

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The memorandum signed by 116 members of the Lombi community highlights the complicity between the armed group of self-proclaimed General Shokoro and the M23 rebels.

Awasa Mango, one of the signatories, underlines the seriousness of the situation.

“In the Banbodi groupment and in the Loya groupment, Shokoro has already installed his local government. The M23 rebels collaborate with him. We are close to the territory of Lubero in North Kivu where the M23 is active. It only takes a day’s walk to get there,” he warns.

The Lombi are calling for an increased presence of the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) to ensure security of their areas.

“We demand sufficient security, the presence of the FARDC in every corner to protect civilians. Their presence is currently minimal. It is crucial to prevent rebels from North Kivu from entering Tshopo.”

Authorities of Tshopo province have recognized the presence of Shokoro troops in Bafwasende territory but have not confirmed their alliance with the M23.

They also deny the installation of new chiefs of groupments and villages by Shokoro.

The situation remains tense in the region and the Lombi community continues to demand rapid and effective intervention to prevent any escalation of violence.

“The collaboration between local rebel groups and the M23 represents a significant threat to the stability of the region. It requires a firm response from Congolese authorities,” say the Lombi representatives.

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