FARDC and Burundian Forces Accused of Deadly Attack on Banyamulenge Civilians: Several Killed, Many Injured
On the night of Saturday, June 6, 2026, into Sunday, June 7, 2026, residents of Ilundu village, near Pastor Ruberanganizi’s residence in Minembwe Commune, experienced a tragic incident after artillery shells allegedly fired by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), in collaboration with the Burundian National Defence Force (FDNB), struck the area. The attack reportedly killed two people, injured several others—including young children—and damaged school infrastructure.
According to local residents, the attack targeted an area inhabited by civilians in Ilundu.
Reports indicate that two individuals have so far been confirmed dead as a result of the shelling:
- Prince Runezerwa Mahiyabo, 19 years old, who reportedly died after being rushed to Minembwe General Hospital for medical treatment.
- Kigeri Mazuru, who died instantly at the scene before any assistance could reach him.
The deaths of these young men have caused deep sorrow among their families and the local community, particularly because the attack occurred while residents were asleep in their homes.
The attack also left several people injured, including both children and adults. Those identified among the injured include:
- Bajeneza Murontsi, a 7-year-old second-grade primary school pupil, who sustained injuries to his arm.
- Nzabakiza Osée, 12 years old, son of Rukema Alexis and Nabisabo Mutoni, who suffered injuries to the neck, both arms, and one leg.
- Nyasafari Chantal, 29 years old, who sustained head injuries and wounds to other parts of her body.
- Nyamahoro Nyankamirwa, 54 years old, who suffered injuries to both legs.
- Cubahiro Fataki, 18 years old, who is receiving medical treatment after sustaining multiple injuries.
- Tito Murengera, 58 years old, who was also wounded in the attack.
The injured victims were immediately transported to medical facilities for urgent treatment, although concerns remain that the casualty figures could change as more information becomes available.
In addition to the loss of life and injuries, the attack also damaged educational infrastructure. Reports from the area indicate that two classrooms at Ilundu Primary School (E.P. Ilundu) were severely damaged after shells landed near the school premises.
Parents and teachers have expressed concern that the destruction could negatively affect children’s education, particularly in a region that has already endured years of insecurity.
The incident occurred amid the ongoing conflict affecting the highlands of Minembwe, Fizi, Uvira, and Mwenga, where armed confrontations between various parties have persisted for many years.
Over the years, residents of the region have frequently reported attacks against civilians, looting, forced displacement, and other security-related incidents that have contributed to humanitarian and human rights concerns.
Human rights organizations continue to call for independent investigations into alleged crimes committed against civilians in order to establish the truth and ensure accountability for those responsible.
Following this latest attack, residents of Minembwe are once again appealing for greater protection of civilian lives and for measures to prevent civilians from bearing the consequences of ongoing armed conflict.
They say that children, women, and the elderly continue to live in constant fear, particularly in areas that are frequently targeted by attacks or shelling allegedly carried out by the coalition composed of FARDC forces, Burundian troops, Wazalendo militias, and the FDLR.
As of now, no detailed statement has been released by the military authorities accused of involvement in the attack. Meanwhile, local residents and various organizations continue to demand a thorough and independent investigation to establish exactly what happened and determine the responsibility of all parties involved.
Minembwe Capital News will continue to follow developments and provide updates as additional information emerges from relevant authorities and eyewitnesses near the scene of the incident.
