A rebel coalition, Alliance Fleuve Congo, has reportedly advanced into Bukavu, the second largest city in the eastern DRC, with witnesses reporting looting and the presence of fighters in the streets. Despite the upheaval, the government has not confirmed these developments. The insurgency follows the recent capture of Goma and is marked by escalating violence and accusations against Rwanda for support of the M23 group.
A rebel coalition known as the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which includes the M23 armed group, has reportedly advanced into Bukavu, the second largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This aggressive move has led to reports of looting and rebel fighters being observed in the streets. The AFC stated that they captured the Kavumu airport and compelled government forces to retreat, leaving the city in turmoil.
The extent of the rebel control over Bukavu remains uncertain, as there has been no official verification from the DRC government. Eyewitness accounts vary regarding the situation in the city, with the rebels having previously captured Goma, the largest city in the neighboring North Kivu province, approximately three weeks earlier. Notably, the DRC military’s confrontations in Goma resulted in over 3,000 casualties.
Accusations from the DRC and numerous Western nations suggest that Rwanda is supporting the M23 group, predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis who departed from the Congolese army over a decade ago. In response, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC.
Since reigniting its rebellion in 2022, M23 has claimed to protect the interests of minority Rwandophone communities. Now integrated within the AFC, the group has seized control over resource-rich areas, including Nyabibwe and Rubaya, home to one of the largest coltan deposits, a critical mineral for smartphone production. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the rebel advancement continues unabated.
Victor Tesongo, the AFC spokesperson, stated that capturing both Goma and Bukavu signifies the alliance’s most substantial territorial gains, affecting a combined population exceeding three million. Meanwhile, Sylvain Ekenge Ekenge, a military spokesperson for the DRC, confirmed the withdrawal of government troops from Bukavu after the rebels took the airport.
Residents of Bukavu reported seeing M23 fighters in their vicinity without any direct confrontations noted. Observations from local individuals indicated the absence of conflict, while reports of rampant looting surfaced in the city amidst the chaos. One resident mentioned, “They are looting depots, warehouses and commercial houses,” attributing the looting to both fleeing soldiers and civilians, emphasizing the lack of security in the area.
In summary, the Alliance Fleuve Congo’s recent advances into Bukavu have intensified the ongoing conflict in the DRC, confirming a pattern of regional instability exacerbated by cross-border allegations of support for the M23 insurgency by Rwanda. The situation is characterized by significant violence, considerable loss of life, and extensive looting, raising urgent calls for intervention and ceasefire to stabilize the affected regions. As the crisis unfolds, the humanitarian impact on the residents remains grave, warranting international attention and aid.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
