According to the group, the attacks have resulted in casualties, widespread destruction, and the mass displacement of civilians, worsening the already fragile humanitarian situation in the region.

AFC/M23 also stated that during the night of March 16 to 17, coalition forces aligned with Kinshasa including the FDNB, FDLR, mercenaries, and Wazalendo militias launched drone strikes targeting densely populated areas of Mikenke, Bidegu, and surrounding localities in Minembwe. The group said these kamikaze drone attacks have continued without interruption.

The movement condemned what it described as repeated attacks against civilians, referencing similar strikes previously carried out against Goma, and called on both the Congolese population and the international community to take note of the situation.

The Deputy Coordinator of AFC/M23, Bertrand Bisimwa said: “Le régime de Kinshasa a choisi la guerre considérant que ses engagements à Doha ne le lient aucunement. Il assume sans équivoque son option en poursuivant ses attaques contre les positions de l'ARC. Notre Armée répondra de la manière qu'il faut pour sécuriser nos populations.”

AFC/M23 reiterated its position that it remains committed to protecting civilians and their property, warning that the continued bloodshed will neither be ignored nor forgotten as fighting persists across eastern DRC.