Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, the second-largest city in the DRC, following the fall of Goma. The local government has urged residents to stay indoors amid escalating violence, while reports indicate looting and chaos. The conflict threatens to destabilize the region further as accusations fly between the DRC and Rwanda regarding military involvement.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) second-largest city, by entering the regional governor’s office unopposed. Following the recent fall of Goma, Bukavu represents the second city lost to the rebels in the mineral-rich eastern region. The DRC government has acknowledged the loss, advising residents to remain indoors to avoid interactions with the occupying forces.
Residents of Bukavu reported widespread fear, with many reluctant to leave their homes due to rampant violence. One local shared, “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting.” Despite this fear, there were instances of cheers for the M23 fighters as they entered the city, indicating the complex emotions of the populace amid the chaos.
On Friday, the M23 captured the main airport located approximately 30 kilometers from Bukavu, advancing slowly towards the city. The provincial governor confirmed that government troops had retreated to prevent urban fighting, leading to disarray as a prison break occurred amid the security vacuum. Reports surfaced that a warehouse containing nearly 7,000 tonnes of food had been looted.
Bukavu, with a population of around two million, is strategically located near Lake Kivu and borders Rwanda, serving as a crucial hub for local mineral trade. The fall of this city marks a significant territorial gain for the M23 since their resurgence in late 2021, further undermining President Félix Tshisekedi’s government.
Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya accused Rwanda of violating DRC’s territorial integrity, claiming the Rwandan military had directly engaged in the conflict to exploit local resources. Meanwhile, Rwandan President Paul Kagame dismissed DRC’s claims, asserting that Rwanda’s priority remains its security against insurgents like the FLDR, who are linked to the historical genocide in Rwanda.
In a demonstrative display, M23 troops gathered in central Bukavu, where one commander engaged with locals and invited government forces to surrender. The African Union reiterated its concern about the potential for an open regional war and called on the M23 to disarm, emphasizing the urgent need for peace in the region.
The recent capture of Bukavu by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels emphasizes the escalating conflict within the DRC, resulting in significant territorial losses for the government. Reports of violence, including looting and armed youth, underscore the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by residents. As accusations between the DRC and Rwanda intensify, regional stability remains precariously threatened, necessitating swift international intervention and dialogue.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
