Top Congolese Commander Killed in Rebel Clashes.
Col. Alexis Rugabisha died fighting M23 rebels in eastern Congo on Saturday. He was a respected leader in the Congolese army (FARDC).
FARDC confirmed his death in a statement on Sunday. The colonel was killed near Mukwiza in South Kivu province.
He led his troops against the Rwanda-backed rebels. The fighting moved from Nyabibwe toward the town of Minova.
"The nation will always remember this brave son who defended his country against Rwandan aggression," the army said.
Col. Rugabisha commanded the 12th Brigade. He played a key role in fighting armed groups in eastern Congo.
Tensions are very high in South Kivu. The army is in constant battles with M23. Congo says Rwanda supports the rebels.
The colonel "died with weapons in hand," said an army spokesperson. "He showed great sacrifice and love for his country."
M23 rebels are approaching the city of Bukavu, about 20-25 km away. This is a big worry for the region.
If Bukavu falls, the rebel group could become stronger and link up with other groups like RED-Tabara.
Many deaths like Col. Rugabisha's show the high cost of the war. Congo wants other countries to condemn Rwanda and help bring peace.
Rwanda denies helping the M23 rebels, but Congo's neighbors are concerned the fighting could spread to East Africa.
Col. Alexis Rugabisha died fighting M23 rebels in eastern Congo on Saturday. He was a respected leader in the Congolese army (FARDC).
FARDC confirmed his death in a statement on Sunday. The colonel was killed near Mukwiza in South Kivu province.
He led his troops against the Rwanda-backed rebels. The fighting moved from Nyabibwe toward the town of Minova.
"The nation will always remember this brave son who defended his country against Rwandan aggression," the army said.
Col. Rugabisha commanded the 12th Brigade. He played a key role in fighting armed groups in eastern Congo.
Tensions are very high in South Kivu. The army is in constant battles with M23. Congo says Rwanda supports the rebels.
The colonel "died with weapons in hand," said an army spokesperson. "He showed great sacrifice and love for his country."
M23 rebels are approaching the city of Bukavu, about 20-25 km away. This is a big worry for the region.
If Bukavu falls, the rebel group could become stronger and link up with other groups like RED-Tabara.
Many deaths like Col. Rugabisha's show the high cost of the war. Congo wants other countries to condemn Rwanda and help bring peace.
Rwanda denies helping the M23 rebels, but Congo's neighbors are concerned the fighting could spread to East Africa.
