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Dozens of civilians lost their lives during confrontations between the Congolese army (FARDC) and its allied Wazalendo militias in Sange, South Kivu province on Sunday, December 7. The clashes reportedly began when some fighters tried to escape from the advancing AFC/M23 rebels, who currently hold Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, along with surrounding regions. ALSO READ: Conflict moves closer to Uvira as AFC/M23 captures two towns. An unknown number of civilians, FARDC soldiers, and Wazalendo were reported killed in the fighting, according to media outlets. On Monday, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka posted on X stating that the exchange of fire involving heavy and light weapons between the Wazalendo and the FARDC in Sange resulted in the deaths of many civilians, as well as some Wazalendo fighters attempting to flee the front line. Kanyuka also mentioned that several others were injured. “The AFC/M23 strongly condemns these brutal attacks targeting civilians deliberately. These actions amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity,” he stated. The rebels are reportedly moving towards Uvira, a key city under government control in South Kivu. Sange, which experienced combat between the rebels and the government alliance on Monday, is approximately 30 kilometers away from Uvira. Fighting was also reported in an area known as Nyakabere. If Sange falls into rebel hands, it will be the third town to come under their control since the start of December. The rebels have maintained control over Kamanyola and captured Luvungi after a week-long battle. Videos shared on social media on Monday depicted rebel fighters interacting with residents in Luvungi.

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