Willy Ngoma, military spokesperson for the AFC/M23 rebel movement, was killed on Tuesday in a drone strike attributed to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), according to several sources including contacts within the rebel group.
The strike reportedly took place near Rubaya, a strategic mining area in Masisi territory, North Kivu province, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Ngoma’s death marks the loss of another senior figure within the movement, following the recent killing of Magloire Paluku, and comes amid renewed escalation of fighting in eastern DRC.
The deterioration in the security situation follows the collapse of the ceasefire arrangements, increased FARDC airstrikes, and intensified ground operations by Wazalendo militia fighters allied with government forces against AFC/M23 positions. The United Nations has previously reported that the AFC/M23 rebellion receives support from Rwanda, an allegation Kigali denies.
Prior to confirmation of Ngoma’s death, AFC/M23 political leader Bertrand Bisimwa accused the Congolese government of violating the ceasefire and escalating hostilities following the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with the United States.
According to Bisimwa, Kinshasa has “shown no respect for the peace process” and is conducting targeted killings in violation of ceasefire commitments.
Willy Ngoma had been under sanctions by the United States since 2023 over the AFC/M23’s alleged involvement in serious human rights abuses, including killings and sexual violence against civilians.
His death represents a significant blow to the AFC/M23’s communication and military structure at a time of intensified conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
