The Congo River Alliance (AFC), a rebel coalition that includes the M23, has claimed responsibility for last week’s attack on Kisangani Bangoka International Airport in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the group carried out the operation between January 31 and February 1, targeting what it described as a military command centre located at the airport.
The facility, according to the rebels, served as a hub for planning and coordinating operations against civilians and AFC/M23 positions in areas including Masisi, Walikale, Rutshuru, Lubero, Kalehe, Mwenga and Minembwe.
Kisangani Bangoka International Airport, situated approximately 17 kilometres from the city of Kisangani, the capital of Tshopo province, is believed to host the headquarters of the Congolese Army’s General Staff of the Third Defence Zone. The Congolese military said on Monday that it neutralised eight kamikaze drones targeting the airport, preventing damage to the facility.
In the aftermath of the attack, provincial authorities in Tshopo accused Rwanda and the AFC/M23 of responsibility, describing the incident as a sustained and unjustified aggression. Rwanda has repeatedly denied accusations by the Congolese government, the United Nations, and other international actors
that it backs the M23.
The claim of responsibility comes as diplomatic efforts continue, following the signing of a ceasefire monitoring agreement earlier this week in Doha, where DR Congo and the AFC/M23 agreed on terms of reference under Qatar’s mediation to de-escalate the conflict in eastern parts of the country.
Source: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/m23-rebels-claim-responsibility-for-drone-attack-on-dr-congo-
airport/3819729
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