AFC/M23 Claims Responsibility for Drone Attack in Kisangani

On February 3, 2026, Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) rebel movement, claimed responsibility for a drone attack targeting Bangboka International Airport in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo. This incident is significant as it marks the first major strike by the AFC/M23 deep behind government lines, signaling a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict between the rebels and the Congolese government.

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The Tshopo provincial government reported that eight explosive-laden drones were launched at the airport, located approximately 17 kilometers from central Kisangani. However, all drones were intercepted and neutralized by the Congolese armed forces' air defense systems before reaching their target, resulting in no casualties or damage. Nangaa characterized the attack as a warning to the Kinshasa government, asserting that the "air superiority" of the Congolese military had been compromised. He declared that the use of Kisangani as a base for launching airstrikes against rebel-held territories was now prohibited.

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The AFC/M23 has gained significant territory in eastern Congo since 2022, including the capture of key cities such as Goma and Bukavu. The recent drone attack occurred shortly after a meeting in Doha, mediated by Qatar, where the Congolese government and AFC/M23 agreed to deploy the first United Nations team to monitor a ceasefire. This context highlights the fragile nature of the peace process and the potential for renewed violence.

Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic northeast city

In his statement on the social media platform X, Nangaa emphasized that any military aircraft operating over what the rebels refer to as "liberated territory" would be targeted at their bases. Meanwhile, the Congolese government has not publicly responded to the claims made by the AFC/M23 regarding the drone attack.

Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic Kisangani airport

Critics of the AFC/M23 argue that the group's actions undermine the peace process and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region. The Congolese government has faced criticism for its inability to maintain security and protect its airspace from such incursions.

Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic Kisangani airport

While the AFC/M23 claims to have successfully executed the drone attack, the Congolese government maintains that all drones were intercepted. This discrepancy raises questions about the effectiveness of the government's air defense systems and the overall security situation in the region.

Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic Kisangani airport

• “The use of Kisangani as a platform for projecting terror against our territories is now prohibited. The sanctuary of this rear base is over,” — Corneille Nangaa, Leader of AFC/M23

Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic northeast city

The drone attack in Kisangani underscores the ongoing tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the challenges facing peace efforts in the region.

Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic northeast city