The coalition of armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) has destroyed the vital Mpeti bridge in Walikale territory, North Kivu, severely impacting the local population. The bridge, located in the Kisimba groupement, was demolished in an attack involving a warplane and a CH-4 drone on the morning of September 28, 2025.
The DRC military stated the operation was intended to block potential routes for the M23 rebel group, which they claim has been reinforcing its fighters in the area. However, the move has drawn sharp condemnation from the AFC/M23 alliance.
Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka described the destruction as an “inhumane act” and a “crime against humanity.” He argued that “these planned actions aimed at destroying essential civilian infrastructure isolate them, preventing them from traveling and transporting goods… [and are] intended to starve and suffocate innocent civilians.” Kanyuka further alleged that these attacks are being planned from Uvira in South Kivu, which he called a hub for terrorist activities. In response, the AFC/M23 declared its commitment to protecting civilians and vowed to “destroy evil at its source” by taking measures to dismantle the government forces they label as aggressors.
