SADC has dismissed claims that its forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo are engaged in joint military operations alongside that country's armed forces, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, and the Wazalendo militia in Goma against the M23 rebel group.

The allegations are contained in a communiqué issued by the Alliance Flamme Congo/March 23 Movement, M23, accusing the SAMIDRC forces of violating a key ceasefire agreement and a failed attempt to retake the eastern city of Goma.

The group demanded that SAMIDRC withdraw immediately from Congo and the surrender of Congolese soldiers stationed within United Nations mission facilities.

SADC, in a statement, said that SAMIDRC has not participated in any joint military operations, calling the claims both inaccurate and misleading.

It said that SAMIDRC is currently implementing a structured and coordinated withdrawal from the DRC as per the directive of the SADC summit of Heads of State and Government, held last month.

"The Organisation remains dedicated to supporting peaceful and diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting stability in the eastern DRC. The SADC Secretariat urges all parties to act responsibly, refrain from the spread of misinformation, and work collectively toward de-escalation and the restoration of peace in the region," the statement reads.