Local sources say the offensive was launched from Kilongo, in Osso Banyungu groupement of Masisi Territory. After hours of clashes, Congolese troops and Wazalendo fighters withdrew from Buhimba, retreating west toward Ngenge.
The fighting forced many residents to flee. Civilians in Ngenge and Kangati, fearing further advances, began moving toward forested areas and nearby localities including Kimua.
AFC/M23 escalated operations after government forces reportedly killed its military spokesperson, Lt Col Willy Ngoma, near Rubaya on February 24, 2026. Since then, the group says it has retaken several positions around Rubaya, accusing Kinshasa of breaching a ceasefire agreement signed in Qatar.
On March 1, four drones targeted Bangoka International Airport in Kisangani. Authorities said the drones were intercepted by the military.
Reports attribute the attack to AFC/M23, mirroring a similar incident reported last month.
Although Bangoka airport mainly serves civilian flights, part of the facility is used by the Congolese military, with its runway supporting combat aircraft and drones conducting operations in North Kivu and South Kivu.
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