New Delhi, Jan. 20 -- Congolese soldiers and fighters from a pro-government militia have reentered the strategic eastern town of Uvira, the army and residents said Monday, a month after it was seized by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, as fighting in the region escalated despite a U.S.-mediated peace deal.

The Congolese army said in a statement it took control of the city on Sunday following the rebels announced withdrawal last month.

"The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are continuing their deployment in Uvira and surrounding areas to consolidate their positions and secure people and their property," Congolese army spokesperson Mak Hazukay said in the statement.

"Since yesterday, we have welcomed our soldiers back af...