Burundian troops recently arrived in Bibogobogo, a locality in Fizi Territory, South Kivu Province, establishing two military camps. Reports suggest that their mission is to hunt down the Twirwaneho militia, as confirmed by statements made by the soldiers themselves.
In the early hours of Friday, January 17, 2025, approximately 300 Burundian soldiers entered Bibogobogo, having traveled from Gafurwe and other areas within Fizi and Uvira territories. According to sources in Bibogobogo, the soldiers initially stopped at a FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo) camp located in an area known as “Ku Musaraba,” under the command of Col. Ntagawa.
Local residents, who observed the soldiers’ movements, indicated that they seem to have come to settle in the area. One resident, speaking to Minembwe.com, stated:
“These soldiers seem to have come to stay. They established one camp near the FARDC base at Ku Musaraba, while the second camp is located at Nyagisozi.”
Despite the establishment of these camps, locals remain uncertain about the soldiers’ true intentions. However, speculation is rife that their presence is linked to plans to pursue Twirwaneho. This assumption stems from previous statements made by Burundian forces during a prior visit to Bibogobogo a few months ago. At that time, they reportedly declared their intent to return to hunt Twirwaneho, Red-Tabara, and M23, although none of these groups are based in the area or share the same political objectives.
Background on the Groups Mentioned
- M23 operates in North Kivu Province, advocating for the survival and rights of its members as Congolese citizens.
- Twirwaneho, composed of Banyamulenge Congolese, defends their community against attacks by Maï-Maï militias.
- Red-Tabara is an armed group opposed to the Burundian government, primarily operating outside the region.
During their previous visit, Burundian soldiers reportedly urged the local Banyamulenge community to refrain from supporting Twirwaneho. They also hinted that their next deployment would be unannounced, a prediction that seems to have come true, as residents woke up this Friday morning to find Burundian troops patrolling their villages.
This sudden and unanticipated presence has left the community on edge, with questions lingering about the implications of such a significant military deployment in the region.
