‘We have two territories in North Kivu’

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Kinshasa - A Congolese army spokesperson says the military has taken control of two territories in the North Kivu province that have seen fighting in recent weeks.

Colonel Sylvain Ekenge said in a statement that the situation in the Masisi and Rutshuru territories is under control and the military overnight on Saturday suspended an offensive launched against rebels.

Lieutenant General Didier Etumba read the statement to The Associated Press on Sunday.

The United Nations refugee agency says nearly 5 000 people - mostly women, children and the elderly - have been displaced because of fighting in areas of the North Kivu province between Congo's army and former rebels who joined the army but then defected in early April and regrouped as a rebel force.

Etumba called on the mutinous soldiers to reintegrate into the army and for military leaders to create favourable conditions for those wanting to return. - Sapa-AP



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