M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized Bukavu, DR Congo’s second-largest city, amid minimal resistance. The government’s response includes urging residents to stay indoors as conditions deteriorated with looting and gunfire reported. Both national and international authorities have raised alarms over the potential for a wider regional conflict due to these developments.
M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have taken control of Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city, after entering without facing resistance. The local population responded with applause as the fighters progressed through the city. This strategic takeover follows the earlier capture of Goma and marks a significant escalation of conflict in an area rich in natural resources.
The Congolese government has acknowledged the loss of Bukavu and has instructed residents to remain indoors to avoid confrontation with the occupying forces. Humanitarian organizations have raised alarms over the ongoing conflict, which has displaced hundreds of thousands, potentially leading to regional instability.
A resident of Bukavu described a chaotic situation, reporting that armed youths are actively looting and firing weapons throughout the city. “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting,” she shared. This unrest was exacerbated when the M23 captured a nearby airport and advanced toward the city center, prompting Congolese troops to withdraw to prevent urban combat.
Security conditions in Bukavu deteriorated significantly, with significant looting reported, including the theft of food from the UN World Food Programme. The city, bordering Rwanda, plays a critical role in regional mineral trade and is home to approximately two million people, making its fall a considerable gain for the rebels.
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of exacerbating local chaos for resource exploitation, a claim that Kigali vehemently denies. President Tshisekedi has urged sanctions against Rwanda in light of the recent disturbances, while Rwandan President Kagame maintains that his country’s security needs must be prioritized, particularly in relation to threats from the FLDR rebel group.
M23 commanders are reportedly encouraging local government forces to surrender, alleging that the military is inciting violence among the youth through arming them. The African Union has expressed deep concerns regarding the possibility of an expanded regional conflict, with calls for the M23 to disarm.
The recent takeover of Bukavu by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels exemplifies an alarming escalation in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The situation has led to significant humanitarian concerns, with widespread looting and fear among residents. Both the Congolese government and the African Union have voiced their apprehensions regarding potential regional instability, amidst ongoing tensions between DR Congo and Rwanda.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
