Early Tuesday morning, January 16, at approximately 1:10am, a dramatic incident unfolded on the Rwanda-Congo border. Three armed Congolese soldiers (FARDC) crossed into Rwandan territory near Isangano Village, Rukoko Cell, Rubavu District.
While two of the soldiers, identified as Sgt Asman Mupenda Termite and Cpl Anyasaka Nkoi Lucien, were apprehended by Rwandan patrols and local citizens acting as neighborhood watch (Irondo), the third soldier fired at the Rwandan forces. Tragically, in the ensuing exchange, the Congolese soldier was shot and killed. No Rwandan personnel were injured during the incident.
Authorities on the Rwandan side have confirmed the soldier’s death and the arrest of the other two, who were found in possession of an AK-47 rifle, magazines, ammunition, a protective vest, and cannabis. Investigations into the incident are currently underway.
This event further amplifies existing tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, adding another layer of concern to the already volatile border region.
