DRC army launches airstrikes on M23 rebel positions

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) on Sunday launched airstrikes on the rebel positions in Masisi and Walikale territories in the eastern province of North Kivu, according to UN radio.

The strikes were reported in the villages of Mukwengwa, Bibwe, Nyarushamba, Nyenge, and Hembe in Masisi, and also targeted rebel positions in Peti, Walikale territory, following two days of intense clashes between rebels and the pro-government Wazalendo militia, Radio Okapi said.

According to the UN radio, several sources confirmed that rebels carried out reprisals in Mukwengwa and Nyabikeri villages, resulting in multiple deaths and homes being set on fire.

Eastern DR Congo has been plagued by violence for decades.