Conflict in eastern DRC triggers displacement and detention disputes

Conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has led to rising tensions between local paramilitary groups and security services, alongside a growing humanitarian crisis. The VDP Wazalendo Front Grand Nord has issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding the release of five of its commanders currently detained in Ituri province. The group claims the commanders were arrested arbitrarily after traveling to Ituri at the invitation of the military governor to share expertise on tracking ADF combatants.

Simultaneously, fighting between the Congolese army (FARDC), supported by Wazalendo, and AFC/M23 rebels has triggered a massive influx of displaced persons in the Walikale territory of North Kivu. Local leaders in Waloa Loanda report that the population is struggling to cope with the arrival of those fleeing combat in the Masisi territory. Intense clashes have been reported near the Biriko locality, and officials have recorded several casualties in the Busurungi area, prompting urgent calls for increased government intervention to restore peace.