Reports from the Democratic Republic of the Congo indicate that the M23 rebel group is intensifying its troop deployments in various strongholds across the Masisi and Walikale territories.
According to sources, this past weekend saw a significant increase in M23 troops and military equipment in several locations.
In areas such as Masisi–Nyabyondo–Kasopo and Nyabyondo–Kinyumba within Masisi, reports state that last Friday, numerous vehicles were seen transporting soldiers and equipment.
That evening, at least seven Kamaz-type military trucks reportedly arrived in the center of Nyabyondo, carrying M23 troops, followed by four additional trucks on Saturday.
Beyond Masisi, M23 has also reinforced its forces and equipment in Kashebere and Kibati within Walikale Territory.
Additionally, in the Walikale region, the movement of M23 troops and equipment has been observed in the Kalembe–Kalonge–Pinga axis. Reports indicate that during a meeting with local residents in Kalembe, M23 leaders announced plans to attack and capture the town of Pinga.
Pinga is a town in the Walikale Territory located over 150 kilometers northwest of Goma.
It is also reported that the group has been directing heavy weapons toward the Mpeti area in recent days.
There are growing concerns that intense fighting could soon resume between M23 and government forces in the western region of North Kivu, after more than two months of relative calm.
