The M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, eastern DRC’s second-largest city, amid ongoing conflicts with the government. Their advance has led to gunfire and unrest, with significant humanitarian concerns for internally displaced people. The rebels claimed control of Kavumu airport, intensifying military operations. The DRC government labeled M23 as a terrorist group, accusing Rwanda of support, while ongoing violence raises fears of further regional instability.
M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to local and civil society leaders. This marks a significant gain amid escalating conflicts with government forces. The rebels penetrated the Kazingu and Bagira areas, pushing towards the city center, leading to reports of gunfire and unrest reported by Jean Samy, a civil society leader in South Kivu.
Videos circulating online show rebel fighters advancing in the Bagira region, with one clip capturing someone exclaiming, “They are there … there are many of them.” Earlier in the day, the M23 had stated they took control of a second airport, intensifying the already dire humanitarian situation facing 350,000 internally displaced individuals due to recent violence.
Local sources indicate that M23 forces surrounded Kavumu National Airport, with reports of soldiers retreating amidst intense fighting. The Associated Press could not confirm the current status of the airport, located approximately 30 kilometers from Bukavu, as officials did not immediately respond to inquiries about the situation.
Following the M23 group’s seizure of Goma’s international airport in January, Kavumu became a strategic target as it is crucial for trade and humanitarian aid, crucial for a population already facing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka claimed the airport was taken to neutralize a threat to civilians, emphasizing, “The airport posed a danger to the civilian population.”
Meanwhile, the DRC Communication Ministry condemned the rebels for violating an established ceasefire, accusing them of leading urban warfare against the FARDC (Congolese military) amid efforts to avoid civilian casualties in Bukavu.
The conflict in eastern DRC is escalating, with the government labeling M23 as a terrorist group, while international organizations classify them as an armed group. The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing M23, a claim Rwanda has rebuffed, even as regional tensions continue to rise amid competing allegations of collaboration with the FDLR, a Hutu armed group associated with the Rwandan genocide.
Military operations in the area remain active, resulting in significant disruptions and humanitarian challenges. Observers warn that prolonged instability could exacerbate the regional conflict, with several peacekeepers from the Southern African Development Community reportedly killed recently as a result of the ongoing offensive.
The M23 rebels have made significant advances in Bukavu, highlighting a severe escalation of conflict in eastern DRC. This has severe humanitarian implications, with thousands displaced and increasing violence. Involvement of regional actors complicates the situation, and the declaration of M23 as a terrorist organization further tensions. The ongoing military operations and accusations between nations may worsen the already volatile circumstances, risking deeper regional conflicts.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
