Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have advanced into eastern Congo, prompting mass evacuations in Bukavu. Reports indicate widespread looting and loss of life, with escalating tensions prompting calls for international intervention at the African Union summit. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and hundreds of thousands displaced, compounding an already dire humanitarian situation.
Panic swept through Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Congo, as residents fled en masse from advancing Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Streets overflowed with those seeking to escape the violence, while looters took advantage of the chaos, stealing supplies and leaving destruction in their wake. As corpses lay in the streets, many businesses closed as the inhabitants braced for the impending crisis. Witnesses described horrifying scenes of looting and loss amid a breakdown of public order.
The M23 group, supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, is one of many active rebel factions in the conflict-ridden region. Notably, the rebels have been accused of severe human rights violations, including sexual violence and forced conscription. Their territorial gains have significantly expanded, threatening the control of the Congolese central government in Kinshasa.
The ongoing rebellion has resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths, displacing hundreds of thousands and leaving at least 350,000 without shelter, according to the UN and Congolese authorities. Recent reports indicated that the M23 claimed control over a strategic airport near Bukavu, which could impede humanitarian efforts and resupply missions for Congolese forces.
Local civil society leaders and government were initially silent on the unrest, yet deadly looting and rebel aggression have escalated following the abandonment of Congolese military positions. This upheaval parallels last month’s unrest prior to M23’s takeover of Goma. Despite significant funding, the Congolese military has struggled with inefficiencies, disorganization, and corruption, undermining their efforts against rebel forces.
As conflict continues, international discussions are underway at the African Union summit, where leaders consider potential interventions. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi is advocating for international support to curb the rebels and respond to Rwanda’s involvement. However, decisive action remains elusive, igniting fears of a broader regional conflict.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the importance of preventing escalation at the summit, underscoring that territorial integrity and national sovereignty must be upheld. Meanwhile, Ugandan troops are engaged in separate operations against Islamist factions in other areas of eastern Congo, further complicating the security landscape.
The situation in eastern Congo has escalated dramatically, with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advancing and causing mass displacements. The unrest has resulted in significant casualties and accusations of human rights abuses against the rebels. Despite international discussions regarding intervention, effective action remains uncertain, highlighting the complexities of the regional conflict.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
