DRC military issues fresh warning: unauthorized smartphone use banned at the front
- Security
Strict measures to prevent security breaches
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have issued a stern reminder to all military personnel: the use of smartphones in unauthorized zones during operations is strictly prohibited. This directive comes as a critical measure to safeguard troop positions and operational integrity.
In an official statement released on July 9, 2026, acting FARDC spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay emphasized the severe risks posed by unregulated smartphone use. “An active smartphone can reveal troop locations, expose movements, and compromise entire units,” he warned. The enemy could exploit such information to launch targeted attacks, endangering both soldiers and mission success.
Clear guidelines for military personnel
The FARDC has outlined strict guidelines for military personnel engaged in frontline operations:
- No sharing of troop positions, movements, or operational details via smartphones;
- No posting of images or videos from operational zones on social media or messaging platforms;
- No unauthorized use of smartphones in designated combat areas;
- Immediate reporting of any suspicious smartphone activity or potential security breaches.
The military leadership has stressed that even a single misused device can jeopardize the safety of an entire unit. Soldiers are urged to exercise extreme vigilance, prioritize operational security, and remain focused on their duties.
Context behind the directive
This latest warning follows recent incidents where videos and messages from frontline soldiers in South Kivu’s Fizi and Mwenga highlands—areas under pressure from the AFC/M23 rebels—were circulated online. These videos highlighted soldiers’ complaints about conditions and operations, raising concerns about operational secrecy and security.
It is not the first time such measures have been necessary. During previous confrontations near Goma, similar incidents prompted repeated warnings from the military to prevent compromising combat operations against AFC/M23 rebels.
Reporting from Goma