M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, DRC’s second-largest city, amid escalating conflicts. Reports indicate gunfire in the city and a claim by the rebels of capturing Kavumu airport. The crisis has led to 350,000 displaced individuals, raising significant humanitarian concerns while the Congolese government expresses allegations against Rwanda for supporting the rebels.
M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with government forces. According to local leaders, the rebels have infiltrated the Kazingu and Bagira zones of the city, which has a population of approximately 1.3 million. Reports indicate gunfire has been heard in various parts of the city while videos shared online show the rebels mobilizing in the Bagira area.
Prior to entering Bukavu, M23 rebels claimed control of a second airport in the region, furthering their territorial gains after taking the city of Goma earlier this year. The ongoing violence has left 350,000 internally displaced individuals without shelter, as noted by the United Nations. Local sources reported that M23 surrounded the Kavumu national airport, witnessing fleeing soldiers amidst the conflict.
Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the M23, asserted on social media that the group’s takeover of Kavumu airport was intended to prevent threats against civilians. He stated that the airport represented a danger to the local populace. Meanwhile, the Congolese government condemned the rebels for allegedly breaching a ceasefire called for by regional leaders, asserting that the military is striving to prevent civilian casualties in Bukavu.
The situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate, exacerbated by tensions between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group. The DRC government categorizes the M23 as a terrorist organization, while the United Nations and the United States recognize it as an armed rebel faction. Accusations persist against Rwanda for supporting the M23, which Kigali denies, alleging that Kinshasa collaborates with Hutu groups linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
The recent advance of M23 rebels into Bukavu represents a troubling escalation within the already volatile conflict in eastern DRC. With significant territorial gains and rising humanitarian crises, the situation continues to deteriorate, posing a potential for broader regional instability. The ongoing violence calls for urgent international attention as local populations face increasing risks of displacement and insecurity.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
