M23 rebels have reportedly entered Bukavu, a significant trading city in eastern Congo, amid a broader offensive that has seen the group gaining territory with little resistance from the Congolese Army. This follows their capture of Goma last month, raising concerns over the stability in the region as chaos ensues in the absence of government control.
The M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo reported entering Bukavu, a crucial trading hub in the eastern region, over the weekend. This latest advance follows their capture of Goma last month, showcasing the diminishing strength of the Congolese military. Local residents confirmed the rebels faced minimal opposition as they moved into the city, further indicating a shift in power dynamics.
Witness accounts and social media videos depict the rebels proceeding in organized column formation through Bukavu. Willy Ngoma, a spokesman for M23, affirmed their presence in the city, enhancing the group’s visibility and influence. With government forces absent, chaos ensued as looters targeted abandoned establishments.
This takeover of Bukavu appears rapid compared to Goma’s protracted conflict, where heavy casualties were reported. If confirmed, the fall of Bukavu, a city bordering a vast lake and home to over a million residents, would represent a significant territory gain for the M23 rebels after their recent maneuvers.
The M23 rebels’ reported capture of Bukavu highlights the ongoing instability in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, reflecting the weakness of local armed forces and their inability to maintain control over key cities. This development emphasizes the growing influence of the M23 group, particularly with their prior conquest of Goma, marking a critical turn in the region’s conflict dynamics.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
