On Thursday, April 13, a joint bureau comprised of the Ad Hoc verification mechanism, the East African Regional Force (EACRF), the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism, and the EAC monitoring and verification mechanism confirmed the withdrawal of M23 rebels and the deployment of Kenya and South Sudan contingents in Tongo within Rutshuru territory in eastern DR Congo.

On the same day, Kenya’s former president, Uhuru Kenyatta, who is the Facilitator of the East African Community-led Nairobi Peace Process met with the UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, Huang Xia, to discuss the security crisis in eastern DR Congo.

The regional force, on April 12, repulsed an attack within its area of operation by a group of armed men suspected to be members of a local armed group.

The armed individuals, who were likely to perpetrate atrocities within Kibumba, in Nyiragongo territory, fired several rounds in the area, leading a quick response force to respond, successfully repulsing them and confining the situation, according to a statement from the regional force.

“The troops have since enhanced patrols within the areas to deter any further threats, especially to the local population who have since been sensitized to continue with their normal activities,” the EACRF said.

Earlier, on April 11, the Kenyan and South Sudan contingent troops under EACRF deployed in Tongo, Rutshuru territory.

As noted, “the deployment follows a successful recce,” a day earlier, led by the Kenyan contingent commander Col Rotich who assured locals that the troops will work with them to enhance security in the area.

Previously, M23 rebels claimed Congolese government forces of breaking a regional leaders-called ceasefire and killing civilians. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka claimed in a statement on April 10 that the government coalition was abusing the sluggish deployment of EACRF in regions vacated by the rebels.