M23 kills two Tanzanian peacekeepers in DRC
DODOMA – Two Tanzanian soldiers from the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) have been killed, and four others injured in an attack by M23 rebels in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), while serving as part of a peacekeeping mission.
The TPDF confirmed the casualties in a statement on Sunday.
The soldiers were taking part in a peacekeeping operation under the auspices of the United Nations and regional organizations when the ambush occurred.
The TPDF said that the bodies of the deceased and the injured personnel are being transported for repatriation through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat.
“The bodies of the fallen soldiers, along with the injured, are being moved for further procedures through the SADC Secretariat,” said Colonel Gaudentius Ilonda, acting Director of Information and Public Relations for the TPDF.
“The soldiers were part of a multinational peacekeeping contingent working to maintain stability in the region.”
The M23 rebel group, a primarily Tutsi militia, has been active in eastern DRC, particularly around the city of Goma. The group has been responsible for ongoing instability in the region, and clashes with government forces have escalated in recent months.
Despite the attack, Colonel Ilonda reassured that other Tanzanian peacekeeping troops in the region remain secure, continue their operations, and are operating under the guidance of SADC leadership.
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Tanzania has long been an active participant in peacekeeping missions across Africa.
The TPDF has contributed to various operations in countries such as Lebanon, Sudan, Central African Republic, Liberia, Mozambique, and the DRC, as part of international efforts to maintain peace and security.
This attack highlights the ongoing risks faced by peacekeepers in volatile regions like the DRC, where armed groups continue to threaten both civilian populations and foreign troops involved in maintaining order.
