The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Armed Forces (FARDC) has issued a fresh directive prohibiting unauthorized smartphone use by troops at the frontline, citing severe security risks to military operations. This stern warning comes as the army faces renewed pressure to maintain operational secrecy in conflict zones.

Lieutenant Colonel Mak Hazukay, acting spokesman for the FARDC, emphasized in a July 9 statement that even a single activated phone can betray troop positions, enabling enemy forces to track movements and launch targeted attacks. The directive applies particularly to the volatile regions of South Kivu, where soldiers are engaged with the AFC/M23 rebels across the Fizi and Mwenga highlands.

The military has instructed soldiers to refrain from sharing real-time locations, operational details, troop movements, or mission footage on social media and messaging platforms. Any suspicious phone activity must be immediately reported to command structures to prevent security breaches. This latest directive follows recent viral videos showing soldiers voicing complaints about conditions in the same conflict zones, raising concerns about operational security lapses.

Similar smartphone-related security breaches have occurred in the past, notably near Goma, where unauthorized footage compromised military operations. The FARDC has repeatedly warned troops about the dangers of digital indiscretion, stressing that a single misstep can endanger entire units.

Troops are urged to exercise maximum discretion, prioritize their operational duties, and remain vigilant against potential electronic surveillance threats. The army has made it clear: “One careless phone can jeopardize an entire mission.”