The Democratic Republic of Congo’s armed forces have issued a fresh warning to troops operating in combat zones, prohibiting the unauthorized use of smartphones during military operations.
In a sternly worded advisory released on Wednesday, the Forces Armées de la République Démocratique du Congo (FARDC) emphasized that the indiscriminate use of mobile devices poses serious security risks to troops and undermines mission objectives.
Why the ban matters
The military leadership, represented by acting spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay, highlighted several critical dangers associated with unauthorized smartphone usage:
- Tactical exposure: Active phones can be tracked, revealing the positions of troops to hostile forces.
- Operational secrecy: Sharing real-time movements, troop strengths, or mission details via digital platforms compromises strategic planning.
- Social media risks: Posting images or videos from battle zones, even inadvertently, can endanger entire units.
Commanders have instructed soldiers to:
- Avoid using personal devices for unauthorized purposes in combat areas.
- Refrain from disclosing operational details, including location, troop movements, or mission parameters.
- Report any suspicious communications or potential security breaches immediately.
A recurring security challenge
This directive comes amid persistent reports of soldiers stationed in the volatile South Kivu region—particularly around Fizi and Mwenga—publicly airing grievances on social media. Recent footage has shown troops criticizing conditions and alleging neglect in their operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and the M23 rebel movement.
The FARDC has faced similar issues in the past, most notably during clashes near Goma, where unauthorized videos and statements from the frontlines sparked disciplinary concerns. Repeated warnings have been issued to maintain operational secrecy and avoid compromising military integrity.
Command responsibility
While the FARDC acknowledges the challenges faced by its troops—including logistical shortages and strained resources—it insists that operational security must remain paramount. Commanders have stressed that even a single unsecured device can jeopardize the safety of an entire unit and potentially reverse hard-won gains in the field.
Soldiers are urged to prioritize discipline, vigilance, and adherence to strict communication protocols to ensure the success of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
Photo d’illustration
