The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) exchanged heavy gunfire with a gang that raided their area of operation, Kibumba, Democratic Republic of Congo, on Wednesday, April 12.
According to a report seen by Kenyans.co.ke released on Thursday, April 13, KDF soldiers were compelled to retaliate after the armed group fired several rounds of ammunition.
The Quick Reaction Force was on standby during the ambush, which helped the military regain control of their assigned area in the peacekeeping mission.
KDF soldiers intimated that the armed group wanted to commit great atrocities especially targeting civilians in the region.
However, it was not established whether KDF made arrests or neutralised the attacks, but no casualties were reported.
Following the attack, the commanding officers issued fresh directives, including increasing surveillance in the area to thwart future ambushes.
The KDF bosses leading the DRC peacekeeping mission also directed the soldiers to protect civilians, ensuring normal operations following the attack scare.
Locals were also sensitised to continue their normal activities and prevent cases of fleeing for fear of more attacks.
"KDF continues to protect the livelihood of citizens in areas they occupy under EACRF in the ongoing peace and stability efforts in Eastern DRC," KDF stated.
The statement on the attack came after retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, on Thursday, April 13, lamented over the lack of trust between the warring parties in DRC.
Uhuru, a peace envoy, noted that their misunderstanding had derailed his mission to restore peace in DRC.
"The critical challenge has been building trust between the various fighting elements and governments as well as the communities, especially those affected by the insecurity," he stated.
However, Uhuru called for more support before another meeting with the warring groups. Specifically, he implored East African leaders to support his quest.
Additionally, he urged the international community to address the humanitarian condition affecting DRC citizens.
"EAC-RF must continue to enjoy the confidence of all parties if it is to be successful in its mandate. Its role as an inter-positional army needs to be re-emphasised and accepted by all parties," the document read in part.
