Shelling from DR Congo Kills Five in Rubavu, Injures Nearly 30 CiviliansBrig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, the spokesperson for the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), has reported that five civilians in Rubavu District lost their lives, and close to 30 others were injured following shelling from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The incident occurred on January 27, 2025, as fighting intensifies near Goma between the M23 Movement and Congolese forces.
According to reports from Rubavu, the shelling is believed to have been carried out by FARDC soldiers and members of the FDLR, a group classified as a terrorist organization by Rwanda. Some of the shells were intercepted by RDF defenses.
Brig Gen Rwivanga confirmed the casualties noting the tragic impact on civilians.
“So far, five deaths have been confirmed, and nearly 30 people are injured. This is the result of indiscriminate shelling by attackers who, instead of targeting military forces, are deliberately harming civilians,” he said.
The RDF has responded by identifying and targeting the sources of the shelling within DRC territory to prevent further civilian casualties.
“This is not a direct attack on RDF positions. Our actions are purely defensive, aimed at neutralizing the artillery locations to minimize harm to the civilian population,” Brig Gen Rwivanga explained.
He reassured the public that the Rwandan military remains committed to ensuring their safety and urged them to remain calm as protective measures are reinforced.
