DR Congo forces clash with Rwanda troops

KINSHASA, 20 October 2021, (TON): The Democratic Republic of Congo says its forces clashed with their Rwandan counterparts near the eastern border.

An army spokesperson in North Kivu province said Rwandan forces crossed into Congo and tensions culminated into a clash.

Brig Gen Sylvain Ekenge told media Great Lakes “a military company of Rwandan forces reached five kilometres into Congo…You can’t explain how armed forces cross the border firing guns.”

The Rwandan army has not responded to the claim or to BBC's request for a response.

Videos circulating online show locals in panic and fleeing as two forces exchanged gunfire. Rwandan soldiers later retreated back home.

Gen Ekenge said “fortunately, no one died from the incident.”

Local leaders said residents returned to their homes after calm was restored.

Cross border tensions between the two East African neighbours are common due to illegal trade, lack of clear boundary demarcation and attacks by rebels.

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