The M23 militia has captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, prompting widespread chaos and fears of a regional war. As the rebels march triumphantly through the streets, the Congolese government acknowledges its defeat and calls for civilian caution amidst looting and violence.
M23 Rebels Seize Control of Bukavu in DR Congo Amid Concerns of Escalating Violence
M23 Rebels Seize Control of Bukavu in DR Congo Amid Concerns of Escalating Violence
The entry of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels into Bukavu raises fears of a broader conflict as the Congolese government urges residents to remain indoors.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has witnessed alarming developments as Rwandan-backed M23 rebels took control of Bukavu, the region's second-largest city, after swiftly entering without mounting resistance. City streets were filled with cheering crowds, but the sounds of gunfire and reports of looting have left many residents fearful. The fall of Bukavu follows the recent capture of Goma, marking a significant territorial gain in the mineral-rich region for the M23 militia since the insurgency resumed in late 2021.
In a somber acknowledgment of the situation, the Congolese government called on the population to stay at home, warning of potentially violent encounters with the now occupying forces. An unnamed local resident conveyed the chaotic atmosphere, speaking of rampant gunfire and youth taking control of firearms, expressing uncertainty regarding the reason for the cheers received by the fighters.
The M23, which had previously taken Bukavu’s main airport, moved closer to the city over the weekend, leading to a disorderly urban environment after Congolese security forces withdrew to avoid confrontation. Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki confirmed reports of M23 presence in the city center, as looting escalated—including a reported breach at a central prison.
With a population of approximately two million, Bukavu serves as a vital transit hub for regional mineral trade and is located adjacent to Rwanda. The fall of the city signifies a crucial setback for President Félix Tshisekedi, as government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya accuses Rwanda of territorial violations and human rights infringements.
In response, President Tshisekedi has urged sanctions against his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame. However, Kagame has dismissed these threats, maintaining that Rwanda prioritizes its security, particularly against the DR Congo-based FLDR group—an entity he perceives as a threat. His frustrations have mounted due to the Congolese authorities' inability to address this group.
In central Bukavu, M23 commander Bernard Byamungu was filmed engaging with residents, publicly calling on government troops to surrender as he implicated them in fostering local chaos. The African Union (AU), currently holding a summit in Ethiopia, has expressed deep concern regarding the potential for an expanded regional conflict, reiterating calls for the M23 to disarm and for peace to be restored. The situation in DR Congo remains tense, with international observers closely monitoring the unfolding crisis.
