M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, DR Congo’s second-largest city, after already capturing Goma. Government urges residents to stay home amidst fears of chaos, including looting and violence. Rwanda’s involvement has raised alarms about regional stability, while international bodies express concern over possible expansion of conflict. The situation highlights the fragility of authority and security in the mineral-rich eastern Congo.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. They entered the city, capturing the regional governor’s office, and faced no resistance as some residents welcomed the fighters into the city center. This follows the recent fall of Goma, marking a significant territorial gain for the M23 in a mineral-rich area.
In response to the occupation, the Congolese government has urged citizens to remain indoors to protect themselves from potential violence. The UN and European nations have raised alarms regarding the escalating situation, warning of the potential for a broader regional conflict as hundreds of thousands of people have already been displaced from their homes.
A Bukavu resident anonymously noted the fear permeating the city, as local youth arm themselves and engage in widespread looting. “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting,” she stated. The chaotic environment persists, with gunfire audible in the streets and no available authorities to protect residents.
The M23 captured the main airport of Bukavu on Friday and advanced towards the city, prompting Congolese troops to withdraw to preempt urban combat. This create a security vacuum, leading to alarming disorder, including a reported prison break and the looting of a food warehouse by the World Food Programme.
Bukavu, a city of approximately two million people, is strategically located near Rwanda and serves as a key transit point for local mineral trade. Its capture represents a significant expansion for the M23 rebels, undermining President Félix Tshisekedi’s government and highlighting accusations against Rwanda for territorial aggression and human rights violations.
In a statement, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya articulated that Rwanda is infringing on DR Congo’s sovereignty through its actions, alleging the presence of Rwandan troops and claiming they exploit the nation’s resources. Meanwhile, President Tshisekedi has called for potential sanctions against Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who insists Rwanda’s focus is its national security amid concerns regarding the FLDR rebel group operating in DR Congo.
On Sunday, M23 troops congregated at Place de l’Indépendance in Bukavu, where they expressed intentions for the remaining Congolese military to surrender. M23 commander Bernard Byamungu criticized the retreating forces for allegedly arming local youths and inciting chaos, emphasizing the urgent need to disarm.
The African Union expressed deep concern over the situation, with its peace and security commissioner warning of the risk of an open regional war. Amid these tensions, calls for disarmament of the M23 continue, reflecting the international community’s apprehensions about the ongoing conflict in the region.
The recent capture of Bukavu by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels signifies a troubling escalation in the conflict within the Democratic Republic of Congo, following the fall of Goma. The situation has led to increased calls for civilian protection and disarmament amid fears of broader implications for regional stability. Accusations against Rwanda highlight the complexities surrounding national security and territorial integrity in this ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
