Over 7,000 deaths have occurred this year in eastern Congo due to violence from M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, who have captured significant territories. The situation, described as alarming by the Congolese Prime Minister, signifies a serious humanitarian crisis with implications for regional stability and safety for local populations.
Congo’s Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka reported that over 7,000 individuals have died in eastern Congo this year due to escalated violence from M23 rebels, who are supported by Rwanda. The ongoing conflict has significantly intensified, with M23 seizing key territories, including Goma and Bukavu, noted for their rich mineral resources essential to global technology needs.
The United Nations has highlighted the alarming security and humanitarian crisis as the fighting continues to escalate, with M23 expressing its intent to challenge the Congolese government led by President Félix Tshisekedi. The insurgents are bolstered by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops operating near Goma, undermining the government’s stability in the region.
M23 leaders claim their mission is to protect ethnic Tutsis and Rwandan-origin Congolese from discrimination while promoting a transformation of Congo into a functional state. Analysts suggest that these claims mask the true nature of Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict.
Recent reports from Goma indicate that M23’s intelligence units are targeting former soldiers and alleged criminals, resulting in tragic misidentifications. For instance, eleven young individuals were killed while participating in a weightlifting session, mistakenly labeled as thieves by M23 forces.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has reached a critical juncture, highlighted by the deaths of over 7,000 people this year due to M23 rebel activities. The situation is exacerbated by Rwandan military support, leading to fears of further regional instability. There are serious humanitarian implications stemming from misidentifications and violence against civilians.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
