17 Jun 2022 | 08:35 AM UTC
DRC, Rwanda: Exchange of fire between border forces reported in Goma June 17
Exchange of fire between Congolese and Rwandan security forces at Petite Barriere border zone, Goma, DRC, June 17. Avoid the area.
Event
An exchange of fire between Congolese and Rwandan security forces has been reported at the Petite Barriere border crossing between Goma, DRC, and Gisenyi, Rwanda, early June 17. Reports indicate at least one Congolese soldier has been killed in the incident and one Rwandan soldier injured. The reasons behind the incident remain unclear.
An increased security presence is likely near the border area in the coming days. Officials could close shared border crossings in response to incidents. Related protests are likely in Goma, and other urban centers across the country in the coming hours and days in response to the incident. Police may quickly resort to force and riot control tactics to disperse protesters if they are overly disruptive. Similar protests have been met with violence in the past. Localized road and public transportation disruptions are likely near the protest location.
Context
The action comes amid deteriorating diplomatic relations between Rwanda and DRC. On June 17, the Congolese government announced the suspension of all agreements and pre-agreements signed with the Rwandan government.
DRC officials recently accused Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels in eastern DRC. Since November 2021, the M23 rebel group has increased attacks targeting armed forces in the eastern DRC. The M23 is seeking to pressure the government to honor a peace agreement signed in 2013, allowing the reintegration of the armed forces into society, among other issues. The renewed activity of M23 militants and further accusations against Rwanda may aggravate tensions in the region.
Advice
Avoid non-essential travel to the impact area until the situation stabilizes. Avoid all demonstrations. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the protest venues. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately, and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Reconfirm the status of border crossings before departure.
