M23/AFC advance near Sake triggers civilian evacuation
On April 22, 2026, renewed heavy artillery clashes broke out as M23/AFC fighters pushed toward FARDC positions near Sake. The ground battle forced an estimated 14,000 civilians to evacuate their homes and head toward crowded displacement sites in Goma.
Date: April 22, 2026
Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Conflict: M23 Rebellion
Category: ground battle
Severity: CRITICAL
Casualties reported: 21
Displaced: 14,000
Source: Radio Okapi