At least 773 people have been killed in Goma, eastern Congo, due to fighting with Rwanda-supported M23 rebels, marking a dangerous escalation in a decade-long conflict. Hospitals report numerous injuries, and there are fears of higher death counts as the rebels maintain control over the city, disrupting critical humanitarian aid for millions affected by the violence.
In eastern Congo’s largest city, Goma, and its surrounding areas, at least 773 individuals have been reported killed amid escalating conflicts involving Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Congolese authorities have noted that the rebels captured Goma, marking a significant intensification in a conflict that has persisted for over a decade. Despite the chaos, the Congolese military has managed to regain control of some territories previously overtaken by the rebels.
The ongoing violence has resulted in a considerable toll on civilian life, with hospitals reporting approximately 2,880 injuries. Patrick Muyaya, a government spokesperson, indicated the provisional nature of these figures, suggesting that the actual death count might be higher due to the discovery of potential mass graves, particularly as rebels urged civilians to clear the streets of Goma.
Despite the harrowing circumstances, some residents have begun to return to Goma following promises from rebels to restore essential services such as water and power. They have reported overwhelming grief within their communities, with reports of widespread mourning among the populace. One resident expressed profound exhaustion and desolation amidst the turmoil.
The M23 rebel group is recognized as one of the most formidable among over 100 armed factions in eastern Congo, a region rich in critical mineral deposits. International assessments indicate that approximately 4,000 Rwanda troops are backing these rebels, reinforcing their combat capabilities compared to previous engagements in Goma.
As clashes continue, the Congolese army has reportedly recaptured villages in South Kivu province that were previously lost to the M23 rebels. Nevertheless, the military faces considerable challenges, having suffered significant troop losses, compounded by the resignation of foreign mercenaries who had allied with them. The UN has noted the rapid advance of rebel forces towards strategic locations, increasing worries about escalating violence.
The humanitarian consequences of Goma’s capture are severe, with disruptions to aid operations and critical services impacting millions displaced by conflict. The UN and aid organizations regard Goma as crucial for delivering humanitarian support, and its fall exacerbates an already dire situation for the local population, who are now facing further displacement and resource shortages.
Reports indicate that human rights abuses have occurred in the wake of the violence, with civilian casualties linked to both M23 actions and Congolese military responses. The situation has attracted international attention, with emphasis on various forms of violence, including extrajudicial killings and instances of sexual violence, underscoring an urgent need for intervention and protection for civilians caught in the conflict.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has persisted for over a decade, characterized by the rivalry among numerous armed groups vying for control of the region’s resource-rich territories. The M23 rebels have emerged as a prominent threat, especially due to their backing from Rwanda. Recent escalations, including the capture of Goma, have raised concerns over a potential humanitarian catastrophe and heightened risks to civilians, especially with the influx of violence directed towards both local populations and displaced communities.
The capture of Goma by M23 rebels has led to a humanitarian crisis with a significant loss of life and injuries among the civilian populace. The conditions in the region remain precarious, with ongoing violence, potential mass graves, and disruptions to humanitarian operations. The international community is urged to respond amid reports of serious human rights violations. It is imperative that efforts are intensified to safeguard civilian life and restore essential humanitarian access in eastern Congo.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
