The MRDP-Twirwaneho armed group has claimed responsibility for shooting down two helicopters belonging to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) in Baraka, Fizi Territory, in South Kivu province, shortly after the aircraft allegedly returned from military operations in Minembwe.
The claim was made by a spokesperson identified as PC Mavugo, who said the incident occurred on June 30, 2026 — the same day the DRC marked its 66th Independence Day.
He said the group “celebrated Independence Day after shooting down two FARDC helicopters in Baraka,” though the statement has not been independently verified.
The FARDC has not yet issued an official response, and no independent confirmation of the incident has been provided by other sources.
Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion near Baraka airport, with some accounts suggesting it may have been caused by a drone strike. Other unverified reports indicate that nearby positions held by Burundian troops deployed alongside FARDC may also have been targeted.
The Burundian army is deployed in eastern DRC in support of FARDC operations against several armed groups, including Twirwaneho and its allies within the AFC/M23 coalition.
The incident comes amid intensified fighting in the highlands of Minembwe and surrounding areas of Fizi and Mwenga territories, where FARDC, supported by Burundian forces, Wazalendo militias, FDLR elements, and other armed actors, have been engaged in sustained operations against Twirwaneho positions.
In recent weeks, both FARDC and Twirwaneho-aligned forces have reported gains and losses in shifting frontline positions, including control of strategic villages such as Mikenge and surrounding localities.
Analysts warn that if independently confirmed, the reported downing of military helicopters would mark a further escalation in the conflict dynamics in eastern DRC, where multiple armed actors continue to compete for territorial control and influence.
The AFC/M23 coalition, which Twirwaneho is often linked to in regional reporting, has also called for increased international attention to the humanitarian and security situation in the region, saying it continues to operate in self-defence and to protect civilians in areas under its control.
