M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma, prompting mass evacuations and fears of regional conflict. They ordered local soldiers to surrender by 3:00 a.m. but independent confirmation of their claims is pending. Reports cite ongoing tensions with sporadic gunfire, and much of Goma remains without power.
The leader of the Congo River Alliance, which includes the M23 rebel group, announced that they have captured Goma, the principal city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Corneille Nangaa stated that the rebels have ordered local soldiers to surrender by 3:00 a.m. local time. However, independent verification of the rebels’ claim regarding full control over Goma remains unconfirmed.
This rapid advance by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in North Kivu province has triggered a mass exodus of residents and raised alarms over the potential for a wider regional conflict. Reports indicate that M23 fighters have extended their reach beyond the Munigi neighborhood, approximately 9 kilometers from Goma’s center.
The M23 faction has demanded the disarmament and surrender of Congolese government forces, claiming they are prepared to take control of Goma. Willy Ngoma, a spokesperson for M23, revealed that they provided a 48-hour warning for local troops to lay down their arms, which has now elapsed, and government soldiers were instructed to assemble at a designated location.
Local citizens reported sporadic gunfire throughout Goma, although the sources of the shooting remain unclear. In the meantime, Goma suffered a power outage, with much of the city plunged into darkness during this crisis. The situation in the region indicates ongoing tensions as government forces assess their position against the advancing rebels.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has persisted for decades, fueled by the region’s rich mineral resources and complex historical ties between various armed groups and neighboring countries. The M23 movement, initially formed in 2012, has been active in the region, often supported by Rwanda, prompting fears of escalating violence and regional instability. The seizure of Goma represents a significant strategic gain for the rebels, who aim to exert greater control over North Kivu province and its resources. The situation has created humanitarian challenges, with thousands of residents displaced and in need of assistance. The Congolese government’s response to the insurgency remains uncertain amidst the rising rebel presence and deteriorating security conditions.
The capture of Goma by M23 rebels highlights the escalating tension in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, raising serious concerns regarding the potential for broader conflict in the region. The demands for the Congolese forces to surrender underline the rebels’ aggressive tactics, while the humanitarian impact of this crisis continues to unfold. The international community is urged to closely monitor the situation to mitigate further violence and instability.
Original Source: www.hawaiitribune-herald.com
