About 20 people killed in armed clashes in DR Congo

At least 20 people have been killed and dozens injured in clashes between the military and Wazalendo militia in South Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Report informs referring to Russian media.

The clashes are taking place in the city of Uvira on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, known for its crowded markets.

"To date, more than 60 wounded and more than twenty deaths from gunshot wounds have been registered in all medical institutions," said Mpanzu Nimi, chief doctor of the Uvira district.

The conflict between the army and the militia began after the M23 group advanced in the region. Some of the soldiers who fled from the front retreated to Uvira to evacuate to calmer areas by boat.

The Wazalendo militia demanded that the soldiers leave them weapons and ammunition before leaving the city. This led to an escalation of the situation.

"As of today, more than 60 wounded and more than twenty deaths from gunshot wounds have been registered in all medical institutions," Mpanzu Nimi, chief medical officer of Uvira district, told the publication.