Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have captured Minova in eastern DR Congo, coming within 40 kilometers of Goma. The situation has intensified fighting in the region, displacing over 200,000 people. Reports indicate significant casualties and an increase in civilian attacks as diplomatic resolutions remain elusive.
The M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has captured the eastern town of Minova in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This capture brings the rebels within 40 kilometers of Goma, a significant provincial capital near the Rwandan border. Following the recent acquisition of Masisi, the Congolese army has attempted to launch counteroffensives against the advancing rebels, amidst ongoing intense clashes in this mineral-rich region, displacing over 200,000 civilians.
Corneille Nangaa, head of the Congo River Alliance which incorporates the M23, confirmed the takeover, stating, “Minova is in our hands.” The governor of North Kivu province, Jean-Jacques Purusi, corroborated the reports of the capture. Local sources in Goma also confirmed this alarming development in the ongoing conflict, which has seen a surge in wounded individuals requiring treatment at provincial hospitals, as highlighted by the Red Cross’s account of increased patient admissions.
Since its resurgence in 2021, the M23 has progressively gained territory in eastern DRC, resulting in the displacement of hundreds of thousands. Although there was a brief pause in hostilities in July, skirmishes intensified again in October and escalated significantly as the year concluded. Recent reports from Amnesty International point to a disturbing rise in attacks affecting civilian populations from both the rebels and government forces.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict, primarily driven by the M23 rebel group, which is accused of being a proxy for Rwanda. This ongoing conflict has roots in historical tensions and has resulted in immense humanitarian crises. The region is rich in minerals, which adds to the complexity and volatility of the situation, as control over these resources often fuels further violence. Diplomatic attempts to resolve the conflict have thus far been unsuccessful, with negotiations often stalling due to disagreements between the involved parties.
The capture of Minova by the M23 rebels significantly escalates their proximity to Goma, heightening the risk of broader conflict and humanitarian disaster. The ongoing violence has resulted in substantial civilian displacement, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis. Diplomacy continues to falter in the face of armed confrontation, and the international community remains concerned about the implications of these developments for regional stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
