Why smartphones are banned in combat zones

According to Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay, acting spokesperson for FARDC, an activated or carelessly used smartphone can reveal troop positions, enable enemy tracking, and expose units to ambushes.

• Never share: troop positions, movements, missions, personnel counts, or operational images
• Never post: operational details or sensitive information on social media or messaging platforms
• Immediately report: any suspicious device usage or potential information leaks

Strict compliance required

The military command emphasizes that even a single misused device can jeopardize entire units. Officers are urging soldiers to maintain strict vigilance, operational secrecy, and unwavering focus on their duties.

This latest directive follows recent viral videos showing Congolese soldiers complaining about conditions in the Fizi and Mwenga highlands of South Kivu, where they are engaged with M23 rebel forces.

History of reminders

This is not the first time FARDC has issued such warnings. Similar videos circulated when fighting was closer to Goma, prompting repeated calls for operational discipline against the M23 rebellion.

Consequences of violations

While the announcement did not specify penalties, military sources confirm that violations could lead to disciplinary action or court-martial, especially when operational security is compromised.