29 AFC/M23 fighters surrender to FARDC and Wazalendo in four days in North Kivu

Twenty-nine AFC/M23 fighters surrendered to the FARDC and Wazalendo groups between October 1 and October 4, 2026, in North Kivu's Lubero, Masisi, and Walikale territories. Many abandoned their positions and uniforms before joining government-controlled lines. These surrenders come amid ongoing military operations against rebels, with ten others captured during clashes in locations such as Remeka, Mohololo, Biriko, and Miko. Authorities link these defections to harsh conditions and forced recruitment by Rwanda, with some young fighters used as human shields, and call on others to leave the rebel group.