Willy Ngoma, the military spokesperson of the M23 rebel group, is dead.
Ngoma was killed in a drone strike in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to rebel officials and regional reports.
The strike reportedly took place near the strategic town of Rubaya in North Kivu province, an area that has seen intensified fighting between government forces and M23 rebels recently.
The rebel movement confirmed the death of Willy Ngoma, describing the incident as a major loss to its leadership.
Predawn strike near key mining hub
The M23, officially referred to as the March 23 Movement, reported that Ngoma was killed in a predawn aerial strike aimed at its positions.
The group accused the Congolese army of escalating military operations despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating the conflict in the east of the country.
Residents in various areas of North Kivu have reported a surge in drone activity and intense military engagements in recent days.
This uptick in hostilities has been particularly pronounced around mineral-rich regions that have historically been contested by armed groups.
Rubaya, a key mining hub, has been at the centre of renewed clashes as both sides attempt to consolidate territorial control.
Better to fall as a soldier in battle than to die like a dog, Rest In Power soldier Willy Ngoma!! pic.twitter.com/Ba1pCl44nu
— African (@ali_naka) February 24, 2026
A visible face of the rebellion
Ngoma, a lieutenant-colonel and one of the most visible figures within the rebel group, frequently addressed the media and issued operational updates on behalf of the movement.
Analysts say his death could affect the group’s communication structure and morale, though it is unclear whether it will significantly alter the military balance on the ground.
Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have not released detailed information about the operation, and there has been no official confirmation from the army regarding the specific target of the strike.
However, military sources cited in regional media suggest the operation formed part of a broader campaign to weaken rebel strongholds in eastern Congo.
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Fragile ceasefire under strain
The development comes at a sensitive time, as regional and international actors, including the United Nations and African-led mediation initiatives, have been pushing for a ceasefire to curb escalating violence in the region.
Despite these efforts, clashes have persisted, displacing thousands of civilians and worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis.
Eastern DR Congo has remained volatile for decades, with numerous armed groups operating in the region.
The resurgence of M23 since 2021 has intensified tensions, particularly in areas bordering Rwanda and Uganda, raising fears of wider regional instability.
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Observers warn that the killing of a senior rebel figure could either disrupt command structures within the group or provoke retaliatory attacks, potentially undermining fragile peace negotiations and further destabilising the conflict-hit region.
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