Panic and Disorder as M23 Rebels Advance in Bukavu, DR Congo

Panic erupted in Bukavu as residents fled from advancing M23 rebels backed by Rwanda. The disturbance led to widespread looting, casualties, and a temporary return to calm as Congolese troops moved south. Reports of violence, looting, and strategic territorial gains by M23 raise international concerns about the humanitarian impact and the stability of the region. Calls for ceasefire and regional stability are echoed amid fears of escalation.

Panic ensued in Bukavu, eastern DR Congo, as thousands of residents and soldiers attempted to flee from advancing Rwandan-backed rebels. Following the M23 fighters’ entry onto the city’s outskirts, streets were filled with those trying to escape, alongside looters seizing supplies. A tense quiet fell over the city later, with locals preparing for uncertain developments ahead, although M23 did not appear to fully control Bukavu as of Saturday.

Bukavu, with a population of around 1.3 million, saw a brief return to calm as gunfire ceased after Congolese troops retreated. Local resident Alexis Bisimwa described the relief of no longer hearing continuous gunfire. However, the aftermath of chaos left gruesome sights, as residents reported charred corpses left by looters who exploited the absence of security forces.

Looting escalated, with accounts of factories ransacked and prisons breached. Residents reported that some soldiers, still present in the city, were participating in the looting. Criticism arose against Congolese troops and local militia allies for the crisis. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the Congo River Alliance, emphasized the need for residents to maintain control of their city amidst the turmoil.

The M23, supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, is a key player among numerous factions contesting for dominance in Congo’s mineral-rich eastern region. This territorial expansion poses significant concerns for the central government in Kinshasa and has drawn international attention, especially from France, which called for an immediate ceasefire and a return of Congolese authorities to Bukavu.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in near 3,000 fatalities and left hundreds of thousands displaced, with the UN estimating around 350,000 internally displaced individuals lacking basic shelter. Reports confirm that the M23 rebels, emboldened by recent successes, aim to solidify their control over strategic locations such as Bukavu’s airport while circumventing ceasefire agreements.

The local situation has garnered international scrutiny, including discussions at the African Union summit where U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned of potential regional escalation. However, decisive actions against M23 and its Rwandan support have been stagnant, with regional disparities in approaches complicating conflict resolution.

The risk of escalation remains high, with Uganda’s military commander issuing threats to opposing forces amid ongoing regional conflicts. The statement included a demand for unconditional surrender, signaling potential confrontation as tensions continue to rise in eastern Congo. Critical actions are needed to stabilize the region and address humanitarian crises stemming from the unrest.

The situation in Bukavu, DR Congo, illustrates escalating tensions as M23 rebels advance, causing mass panic and disorder among residents. The retreat of Congolese troops has left a power vacuum exploited by looters, resulting in significant humanitarian impact and international concern. With calls for ceasefire and stability, the conflict highlights the complexities of regional geopolitics and the urgent need for resolution to prevent further escalation.

Original Source: www.euronews.com