Rebels of the Front for Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) have unsuccessfully attempted to recapture Mahanga, in Butsike area (Nyamaboko 1 group) in Masisi, North Kivu.
The rebels had been dislodged from Mahanga three days ago by the Congolese troops FARDC.
According to security sources, FRN rebels launched an attack to recapture the village from which they had been driven out last Wednesday by government forces and their allies.
After several hours of fighting, marked by heavy and light weapons fire, the FARDC and the Wazalendo rebels managed to contain the offensive before repelling the rebels.
The FRN rebels have retreated to Kasopo, their initial position.
Meanwhile, loyalist forces are consolidating their presence in the area to prevent any further attempts at reconquest.
The attempt by rebels to recapture Mahanga flared off after reinforcements came in from Nyabiondo to FRN including extra rebels and ammunition.
Eyewitnesses on ground told Taarifa that the situation had return to normal on Saturday morning.
However, in Mahanga, the Congolese military presence remains reinforced in a still fragile security context.
