In a startling escalation of conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the city of Bukavu has fallen to M23 rebels with little resistance, adding to the chaos and humanitarian crisis in the region.
Second Major City in DR Congo Succumbs to M23 Rebel Forces
Second Major City in DR Congo Succumbs to M23 Rebel Forces
Violence erupts as Rwandan-backed rebels seize control of Bukavu, prompting government and international warnings.
The M23 group, supported by Rwanda, successfully entered Bukavu, the capital of South-Kivu province, on Sunday, following their capture of the nearby main airport just days prior. As residents witnessed their arrival, many reportedly congratulated the fighters, amidst a tense atmosphere filled with gunfire and looting. The absence of local authorities has only heightened fears among the populace, who are being urged by the Congolese government to stay indoors for their safety.
Provincial governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki confirmed the fighters’ takeover of key areas in the city, and noted that government troops retreated to avoid urban combat. This retreat left Bukavu vulnerable, leading to scenes of disorder, including a prison break and widespread looting, including a significant pilfering of food supplies from a World Food Programme warehouse.
As Bukavu's fall marks a significant territorial gain for the M23 — which has been active since late 2021 — political tensions are rising. DRC’s government has accused Rwanda of infringing on its territorial integrity, asserting that Rwandan troops are on the ground to exploit the region’s abundant natural resources. Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has denied these allegations, emphasizing national security concerns stemming from the persistent FLDR rebel activity, linked to the 1994 genocide.
M23 leaders have publicly engaged with local communities, with one commander calling for remaining Congolese forces to surrender. Meanwhile, the African Union is expressing grave concern about the potential for a wider regional conflict, underlining the urgency for disarmament and stability in the area.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community looks on with alarm at the escalating violence and the growing humanitarian crises in eastern DRC.
Provincial governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki confirmed the fighters’ takeover of key areas in the city, and noted that government troops retreated to avoid urban combat. This retreat left Bukavu vulnerable, leading to scenes of disorder, including a prison break and widespread looting, including a significant pilfering of food supplies from a World Food Programme warehouse.
As Bukavu's fall marks a significant territorial gain for the M23 — which has been active since late 2021 — political tensions are rising. DRC’s government has accused Rwanda of infringing on its territorial integrity, asserting that Rwandan troops are on the ground to exploit the region’s abundant natural resources. Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has denied these allegations, emphasizing national security concerns stemming from the persistent FLDR rebel activity, linked to the 1994 genocide.
M23 leaders have publicly engaged with local communities, with one commander calling for remaining Congolese forces to surrender. Meanwhile, the African Union is expressing grave concern about the potential for a wider regional conflict, underlining the urgency for disarmament and stability in the area.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community looks on with alarm at the escalating violence and the growing humanitarian crises in eastern DRC.
