FARDC repel new FRN attempt to retake Mahanga
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Taarifa
The FARDC and Wazalendo fighters repelled an attempt by the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation to retake Mahanga, in Masisi, North Kivu. After several hours of fighting, the rebels withdrew towards Kasopo, while loyalist forces strengthened their positions, according to security sources cited by Taarifa.
Rebels from the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) failed to retake Mahanga, in the Butsike area, within the Nyamaboko 1 groupement, in Masisi territory, North Kivu. After several hours of fighting marked by heavy and light weapons fire, the FARDC, the Congolese army, and Wazalendo fighters contained and then repelled the offensive, according to security sources cited by Taarifa.
FRN rebels withdrew towards Kasopo, their initial position, while loyalist forces strengthened their presence in Mahanga to prevent another attempt to retake it. Reinforcements, including additional fighters and ammunition, had arrived from Nyabiondo before the attack, according to Taarifa. Witnesses said the situation had returned to normal on Saturday morning, while reporting that the reinforced Congolese military presence remained in the village.
This new attempt came after fighting between the FARDC and the FRN in Mahanga, reported on 6 November. It also came after new fighting in North Kivu and South Kivu, reported the same day.
