The United Nations cautioned on Monday that Walikale centre was littered with mines and other explosives warning residents of premature return to their homes.
“Presence of explosive remnants of war in residential areas of Walikale Centre represents serious danger to residents, including formerly displaced persons who are beginning to return to their homes,” said Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General.
The AFC/M23 withdrew from the rural commune of Walikale.
Local civil society groups “are issuing an urgent warning against premature returns before the completion of demining operations,” he added.
In South Kivu, particularly in Bukavu, the provincial capital, and in Kalehe territory, where “large quantities of explosive remnants of war” remain. This situation threatens local and displaced communities, “as well as humanitarian workers trying to reach populations in need,” said Stéphane Dujarric.