M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, the DRC’s second-largest city, escalating ongoing tensions with the government. Reports indicate gunfire in various parts of the city and the rebels’ claim of controlling local airports. The state of displacement is grave, with thousands left without shelter amidst ongoing conflict. The DRC government has condemned M23 actions, heightening regional security concerns.
On Friday, M23 rebels advanced into Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) second-largest city, according to local and civil society sources. This marks a significant gain following intensified conflict with government forces. Reports indicate that the rebels have entered the Kazingu and Bagira zones, moving towards the city center, which is home to about 1.3 million residents. Gunfire has been reported in several areas of the city as the situation escalates.
Residents posted videos online seemingly showing the rebels marching in the Bagira area, with one video capturing a voice exclaiming, “They are there … there are many of them.” Earlier, the M23 claimed to have taken control of a second regional airport and stated that ongoing fighting had displaced around 350,000 individuals, leaving them without shelter, according to U.N. reports.
Local accounts suggest that the M23 rebels are surrounding Kavumu Airport, approximately 30 kilometers from Bukavu, with soldiers reportedly fleeing the area as violence intensifies. The Associated Press was unable to verify control over the airport. Kavumu Airport recently gained attention after the M23 captured Goma, a crucial humanitarian hub, in January.
M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka announced on the social media platform X that the rebels had taken control of Kavumu Airport, stating it was to “eliminate the threat at the source,” claiming the site posed risks to local civilians. In response, DRC’s Communication Ministry condemned the rebel actions, highlighting violations of a ceasefire intended to prevent urban warfare.
The ongoing crisis in eastern DRC sees increasing tensions between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels, which the government has designated as a terrorist organization. Meanwhile, the UN and the United States categorize them as an armed rebel group. The DRC’s government accuses Rwanda of backing M23, a claim Rwanda contests, while Rwanda alleges DRC supports the FDLR, a militant group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Amid escalating conflicts, military operations are fluid, with clashes causing further humanitarian issues and massive displacement. Analysts warn that this instability could deepen the ongoing regional conflict. There have already been casualties among Southern African Development Community peacekeepers due to the recent insurgent activities.
The entry of M23 rebels into Bukavu marks a critical phase in the ongoing conflict in the DRC, raising concerns over civilian safety and humanitarian conditions. With accusations exchanged between neighboring countries and continued military tensions, the situation remains volatile. The designation of M23 as a terrorist group by the DRC government, coupled with the complex international relationships in the region, underscores the urgent need for resolution.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
