world 9 August 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Market Mortar Strike in DRC Claims 9 Civilian Lives
A mortar strike on Rumbishi Market in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in the deaths of at least nine civilians and injured several others. Both the M23 rebel group and the Congolese army have traded accusations over responsibility for the deadly incident. Source: https://observer.ug/news/drc-9-civilians-killed-in-mortar-strike-on-market-in-south-kivu
A devastating mortar attack on Rumbishi Market in Ziralo, South Kivu Province, has killed at least nine civilians and left many more wounded. The incident occurred on Friday evening around 5:45 pm in a densely populated marketplace.
Local residents reported that the mortar shell struck as people were going about their daily activities. Initial reports indicated five fatalities, including two women, with others succumbing to their injuries later. Images circulated by residents depicted chaos and injured individuals seeking assistance, with casualties being transported to Numbi hospital.
The area where the attack took place is reportedly under the control of the March 23 Movement/Alliance Fleuve Congo (M23/AFC). Both the M23/AFC and the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) have issued conflicting statements, each blaming the other for the shelling.
The M23/AFC spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, confirmed the nine civilian deaths and accused the FARDC and its allies of firing an 82mm mortar. Kanyuka also alleged separate attacks by FARDC-aligned forces in North Kivu Province later that evening, resulting in one death and serious injuries.
Conversely, FARDC spokesperson Lieutenant Gbé Jérémie Meya stated that M23/AFC rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), fired several 82mm mortar rounds towards populated areas after an attempted advance. Meya condemned the actions as a violation of international humanitarian law.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing civilian toll in eastern DRC’s persistent conflict. Eastern DRC has seen numerous attacks causing civilian casualties, raising serious concerns about peace prospects amidst ongoing rebel insurgencies and peace initiatives.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)