Congo Rebels Claim Control Over Goma Amidst Rising Tensions
Congolese rebels claim to have seized Goma, the eastern city crucial for control in the conflict-ridden region. Led by Corneille Nangaa of the M23 group, they threaten government forces with an ultimatum for surrender while local residents report gunfire and power outages. The situation raises concerns over potential regional instability and humanitarian impacts.
On Sunday, rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo announced their control over Goma, the largest city in the eastern region, following a swift military advance. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance including the M23, stated, “We have taken Goma and have ordered soldiers to surrender by 3:00 a.m. local time (0100 GMT).” However, independent verification of the complete rebel control over the city remained unverified at the time of reporting.
Reports indicate that M23 forces, backed by Rwanda, have rapidly fortified their positions in eastern Congo, launching their offensive on Goma earlier last week. By Sunday evening, M23 fighters had advanced to Munigi, approximately 9 kilometers from the city center. During this incursion, they issued orders for government forces to disarm and surrender.
Nangaa confirmed that, after discussions, rebel forces permitted certain army officials to evacuate Goma via boat to Bukavu. Willy Ngoma, a spokesperson for M23, highlighted the ultimatum given to Congolese forces, stating, “We gave the (Congolese forces) a 48-hour ultimatum to lay down their arms. The ultimatum has already passed, so we say that they can deposit their military equipment at (U.N. mission) MONUSCO.”
As night fell, residents reported hearing sporadic gunfire, but the identities of those involved remained uncertain. The city also experienced power outages, plunging Goma into darkness. Amidst these tensions, boat traffic on Lake Kivu was reported to be suspended by rebel officials.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has faced ongoing conflicts, particularly in its eastern provinces, which are rich in minerals yet suffer from political instability and violence. The M23 group, which has a history of rebellion and is alleged to receive support from Rwanda, has intensified its activities in recent weeks, threatening to escalate violence in an already fragile region. Goma, being a significant urban center in North Kivu province, is often a focal point of military engagements and humanitarian crises.
The capture of Goma by the M23 rebels marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Amidst fears of a wider regional war, the prospect of instability remains high as rebel forces issue ultimatums to government troops and disrupt civilian life with their military activity. The international community continues to monitor the situation for potential humanitarian implications and risks of further escalation.
Original Source: www.hawaiitribune-herald.com
