• Security
• Friday, July 10, 2026 – 09:26

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have issued a fresh directive prohibiting unauthorized smartphone use in active combat zones, citing significant security risks to military operations.

In a stern warning issued on July 9, acting FARDC spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay emphasized that even a single smartphone left on or used carelessly can expose troop positions to enemy forces. This practice, he noted, compromises the safety of entire units and undermines mission success.

The military has instructed frontline personnel to refrain from sharing sensitive operational details, including troop movements, mission specifics, or combat footage on social media or messaging platforms. Any suspicious smartphone activity must be reported immediately to prevent security breaches.

This latest directive follows recent viral videos showing Congolese soldiers complaining about conditions in the Fizi and Mwenga highlands of South Kivu, where they face attacks from the AFC/M23 rebel group. Similar incidents were documented near Goma in the past, prompting repeated military warnings against actions that could weaken the fight against the AFC/M23 rebellion.