The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) Armed Forces (FARDC) have issued a fresh directive prohibiting the unauthorized use of smartphones by soldiers stationed at the frontlines. This stern reminder comes as military officials warn of severe operational risks associated with careless smartphone usage in conflict zones.
In a strongly worded statement released on July 9, 2026, acting FARDC spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay emphasized that even a single improperly used mobile device could expose entire units to enemy threats. The statement highlighted the dangers of geolocation tracking, unauthorized sharing of military movements, and the dissemination of sensitive operational details through social media or messaging platforms.
critical security measures for frontline troops
The military command has outlined strict guidelines for soldiers at the front, including:
- Absolute prohibition on using smartphones without official authorization in combat zones
- Mandatory discretion regarding troop movements, positions, and operational plans
- Immediate reporting of any suspicious smartphone activity or potential security breaches
- Zero tolerance for sharing images, videos, or operational updates on any digital platform
The directive follows a spate of concerning incidents where soldiers posted videos from active conflict zones in South Kivu’s Fizi and Mwenga highlands, where AFRC/M23 rebels continue to engage FARDC forces. Such unauthorized disclosures have repeatedly compromised military operations in the region, prompting repeated warnings from the army command.
repeated warnings ignored
This isn’t the first time the army has intervened on this issue. Similar violations occurred during earlier confrontations near Goma, where soldiers’ social media posts revealed sensitive information about troop deployments and battlefield conditions. Despite previous reprimands, unauthorized smartphone use has persisted, undermining military discipline and operational security.
The latest warning underscores the military’s growing frustration with such breaches, which not only endanger troops but also provide adversaries with critical intelligence. The army has called for strict adherence to protocols, urging soldiers to prioritize their duty and national security over personal communication devices.
Photo illustration: FARDC troops in operation