In a statement issued on Saturday, October 10, 2026, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the coalition forces included the Congolese army (FARDC), the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), Mai-Mai militias, foreign mercenaries and members of the Burundi National Defence Force.

"This military escalation is particularly concerning in the Minembwe region, where attacks continue with increased intensity," Kanyuka stated.

Kanyuka said the forces intensified drone attacks on Point Zéro and surrounding areas in Minembwe at around 10 p.m. on Friday, October 9.

He added that another attack using kamikaze drones targeted Rugezi and neighbouring areas in the early hours of Saturday, October 10, at around 1 a.m.

According to Kanyuka, the repeated attacks on populated areas had resulted in deaths, forced civilians to flee their homes and worsened an already severe humanitarian situation.

AFC/M23, which operates in the area alongside the MRDP Twirwaneho armed group, did not provide figures for the reported deaths, injuries or displacement.