Explosions Rock Goma as M23 Rebels Close in on Key City
Panic swept through Goma on Thursday as M23 rebels advanced steadily toward the city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, engaging in clashes with the national army.
Explosions rang out from the outskirts while the main hospital was overwhelmed with hundreds of injured civilians brought in from nearby towns and villages.
Some people shared their traumatic experiences of fleeing attacks in Mubambiro and Saké, about 25 kilometres (15 miles) west-northwest of Goma, where they saw numerous casualties.
The situation in Saké remained unclear, as residents reported that rebels had entered and taken control of the town.
Many residents of Saké are now among the more than 178,000 people who have fled due to the M23’s latest offensive.
The rebel group has made significant advances in recent weeks, moving closer to Goma, a city of about 2 million people and a key hub for security and humanitarian efforts.
The Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is embroiled in a complex conflict involving approximately 100 armed groups vying for control of the region’s valuable mineral resources.
This ongoing violence, particularly near the Rwandan border, has triggered a massive humanitarian crisis, displacing over 7 million people.
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The M23 rebel group is a key player in this conflict. Earlier this month, they seized several towns west of Goma, including Minova, Katale, and Masisi.
This is not the first time M23 has posed a threat to Goma; they briefly captured the city in 2012. Recent clashes have caused widespread concern, prompting schools in Goma to close early on Thursday as a precautionary measure.
A local teacher emphasised the urgent need to prioritise public safety in Goma.
He said, “The safety of the people must be ensured.”.
He added, “With thousands of students, it’s unsafe to keep them at school. We must act prudently and send the children home while we monitor the situation.
The Democratic Republic of Congo, supported by the United States and UN experts, alleges that Rwanda is backing the M23 rebel group. This group is largely composed of ethnic Tutsis who deserted the Congolese army over a decade ago.
Content Credit| Igbakuma Rita Doom
Picture Credit | https://www.mountnyiragongo.com/
