FIVE FDLR KILLED IN FIGHT WITH FARDC IN NORTH KIVU

C O N F I D E N T I A L KINSHASA 001960 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/10/2015 TAGS: PGOV PREL KPKO CG SUBJECT: FIVE FDLR KILLED IN FIGHT WITH FARDC IN NORTH KIVU Classified By: PolOff TJNaber, reasons 1.4 b/d. ¶1. (C) According to MONUC's Goma office, the FARDC Fifth Integrated Brigade killed five FDLR militia who they had surprised while on patrol in Musesa, Rutshuru district November 28. Two FDLR escaped, and five weapons were recovered. ¶2. (C) However, North Kivu Governor Serufuli told polcouns that the FDLR had attacked a FARDC position, causing the altercation. He said that General Amisi, the Eighth Military District Commander, was considering a response to the aggression. ¶3. (C) Comment: Regardless of whether the altercation was due to surprise or aggression, it is a good sign that FARDC pressure on the FLDR is continuing. Sustained and more widespread pressure will be needed, however, as there are already reports that FDLR may be returning to the Virunga National Park area following Operation Virunga Clearance last month. End comment. DOUGHERTY