Nearly 3,000 fatalities have been reported due to clashes in Goma, DRC, as M23 militants battle with national forces; U.N. teams are assisting in recovering bodies. The humanitarian crisis is worsening amidst accusations of Rwandan support for the M23. As the situation escalates, tensions increase toward Bukavu, threatening civilian safety and vital infrastructure.
The United Nations has reported that nearly 3,000 individuals have lost their lives in recent clashes between M23 militants and the Congolese national army in Goma, a critical city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Vivian van de Perre, the deputy head of the U.N. mission in the DRC, indicated that U.N. teams are currently assisting in the recovery of deceased individuals from the streets of Goma, with approximately 2,000 bodies retrieved and another 900 located in hospital morgues.
Van de Perre expressed concern over potential epidemics resulting from the situation, stating, “We expect this number to go up. There are still many decomposing bodies in many areas.” The M23 group broke a ceasefire in January, launching an offensive in eastern DRC that has led to extensive violence and displacement. The DRC government has accused Rwanda of backing the M23, which Rwanda denies, and tensions continue to escalate.
Currently, Goma is stated to be under the control of the M23, as affirmed by van de Perre. “All exit routes from Goma are under their control, and the airport, also under M23 control, is closed until further notice,” she stated, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation and significant human suffering.
As conflict persists, the United Nations peacekeepers based in Goma are overwhelmed, with nearly 2,000 civilians seeking refuge at their facilities, which are already at full capacity. Van de Perre reported that the humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by a lack of essential services, with water partially restored but limited, leading to skyrocketing prices in local markets.
The M23’s advancing forces are reportedly approaching Bukavu, raising tensions in the region. “In Bukavu, tensions are rising as the M23 moves closer,” van de Perre remarked, emphasizing the precarious position of civilians and crucial infrastructure such as Kavumu airport, pivotal for humanitarian operations.
The United Nations face challenges in their operations around Goma, including restricted movement due to the militant group’s control, and the need to announce movements 48 hours in advance. As the situation develops, concerns about human rights violations, interference with aid work, and threats to journalistic freedoms arise amid ongoing conflict in the DRC.
The situation in Goma, DRC, has heightened due to clashes between M23 rebels and the Congolese government forces, leading to significant loss of life and a humanitarian crisis. The M23 has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda, which has been a point of contention between the two nations. The deteriorating conditions in Goma have raised urgent fears of epidemics, further complicating relief efforts made by the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations. The activities of the M23 indicate a broader regional conflict with historical roots, reflecting decades of instability in the area. The ongoing fighting has exacerbated the situation for civilians, many of whom are displaced or lack access to essential services.
The ongoing conflict in Goma, DRC, has resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths, with significant implications for the humanitarian situation. The U.N. is responding but faces challenges, including overcrowded peacekeeping bases and the threat of disease outbreaks. As tensions rise with M23 moving toward Bukavu, regional implications of the conflict remain concerning for both local populations and international stakeholders.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
