Rebels from the Alliance Fleuve Congo claim control over Bukavu, leading to looting and chaos. The DRC government has not confirmed these advances. This follows the recent capture of Goma and ongoing accusations against Rwanda regarding support for the M23 group. Residents are facing insecurity amid deteriorating conditions.
Rebel forces have reportedly advanced into Bukavu, the second largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with residents observing looting and the presence of armed fighters in the streets. The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which includes the M23 group, announced their control over Kavumu airport, stating that they forced government forces to retreat, leaving the city vulnerable.
The DRC government has yet to verify these claims, and eyewitness accounts vary regarding the extent of the rebels’ presence in Bukavu. This escalation follows the recent rebel capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, and is indicative of the ongoing conflict, which has claimed over 3,000 lives in Goma alone.
Accusations have been directed towards Rwanda, suggesting support for the M23 group, predominantly made up of ethnic Tutsis. Although Rwandan President Kagame denied knowledge of his troops’ involvement in DRC, the M23 has renewed its offensive since 2022, expanding its territory in North Kivu and occupying resource-rich areas.
Calls for peace by international leaders have proved ineffective as AFC representatives celebrate their territorial gains. Victor Tesongo, a spokesperson for AFC, indicated that the takeover of Goma and Bukavu represents their most significant territorial expansion to date. The combined population of these cities exceeds three million inhabitants.
Military spokesperson Sylvain Ekenge Ekenge confirmed that government forces withdrew from Bukavu following the rebels’ takeover of the airport. Local residents have reported the sighting of M23 fighters, although confrontation has yet to occur. Local accounts describe widespread looting, attributing it to fleeing soldiers and civilians, thereby raising concerns about security in the area.
In summary, the Alliance Fleuve Congo’s recent advances into Bukavu highlight the ongoing instability in the DRC. The group’s ability to control significant urban areas and its accusations against Rwanda underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. With widespread looting reported amid a lack of security, the situation remains precarious for residents.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
