The M23 rebels have advanced in the DRC, capturing Goma and Bukavu amidst defection among government forces. The DRC authorities have offered a $5 million reward for information leading to the capture of M23 leaders. The escalating violence has led to civilian casualties and widespread displacement, raising concerns about humanitarian conditions.
The M23 rebel group has advanced into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), capturing significant cities such as Goma and Bukavu. This expansion has occurred amid reports of defections from government-aligned forces. The rebels have entered Nyabwindo village, approximately 100 kilometers north of Goma, positioning themselves towards the strategically important town of Walikale in North Kivu province.
Walikale holds significant importance as it is home to an industrial mine crucial for government revenues. Al Jazeera’s Alain Uaykani notes, “Walikale is very important for the government as it is the only place where the government has the industrial mine from which they are getting millions of tax payments.” Meanwhile, the Group Kabido, a government ally, has declared its allegiance to the M23, citing dissatisfaction with the Kinshasa government as the reason for their alliance.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that significant civilian infrastructure has been adversely affected by the growing conflict, resulting in the displacement of numerous individuals. Recent violence led to the targeting of hospitals, with troubling reports indicating that at least four civilians lost their lives in confrontations between M23 and rival factions in the Masisi district.
To combat the advancing rebels, the DRC government has issued a $5 million reward for information leading to the capture of M23 leaders Corneille Nangaa, Bertrand Bisimwa, and Sultani Makenga, who have been convicted in absentia by DRC authorities. Alongside this reward, an additional $4 million is offered for information regarding their accomplices. Since January, fighting in the eastern DRC has resulted in over 7,000 fatalities, with civilians comprising a considerable portion of the casualties. The M23 is among more than 200 armed factions vying for control in the region, having resumed military activities in 2021 after a prolonged period of dormancy.
In summary, the M23 rebel group has achieved significant territorial gains in the DRC, raising the stakes for government forces who are struggling to maintain control. With the DRC government offering rewards for the capture of rebel leaders and reports of escalating violence, the situation remains dire for civilians caught in the conflict. The international community closely monitors the allegations of external support for the M23, particularly concerning Rwanda, as the fighting continues to threaten regional stability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
