Sky News Investigates M23 Rebels’ Control Over Goma and Rwanda’s Role
The Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Goma and released captured Romanian mercenaries, who were chastised by M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma. Despite claims of fighting for a noble cause, the rebels’ reliance on Rwandan support is evident, raising concerns about the future for local populations who are grappling with fear and uncertainty amid the conflict.
Sky News reports on the recent actions of the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, who have released Romanian mercenaries captured while fighting alongside the Congolese army. As these mercenaries passed into Rwanda, M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma mockingly tapped them one by one in front of an audience. The context of this event unfolds on the outskirts of Goma, where remnants of the Congolese army are evident, indicating a fierce battle for control over this vital city, now largely held by M23.
The scene is unsettling, with abandoned military uniforms and equipment littering the road near the United Nations’ largest peacekeeping mission site. M23 has seized Goma, strategically positioned to access mineral-rich territories, reflecting their growing influence and control since last year. Witnesses on the ground express fear about the uncertain future under M23’s reign, with some locals whispering their concerns about the implications of this shift in power.
As celebrations erupt among small crowds welcoming the rebels, there is a palpable tension among those who secretly denote their discontent. M23 seems intent on establishing their authority even in the disgrace of former foes, such as the Romanian soldiers. This handover was organized by MONUSCO, which facilitated the evacuation of mercenaries amid the ongoing conflict in the DRC.
In an aggressive interaction, Willy Ngoma denied any assistance from Rwanda while insisting they were fighting for a noble cause, making it clear they identified as a Congolese force. Nevertheless, this assertion contradicts widespread reports and international condemnation regarding Rwanda’s involvement with the M23 rebels, hinting at a geopolitical crisis fueled by external support. The scene culminates as a final Romanian mercenary departs, wounded but flanked by UN personnel leaving Congolese families to navigate their own precarious situations.
Currently, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing intensified conflict largely due to the activities of the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda. The M23 is now in control of Goma, a significant city that serves as a hub for various military and humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations. This conflict has resulted in the displacement of numerous individuals and a humanitarian crisis as local populations seek safety and stability while facing the volatile environment created by the insurgents, supported by outside forces.
The situation in Goma illustrates the complexities surrounding the M23 rebel group’s advancements in the DRC, particularly concerning the alleged support from Rwanda. The captured Romanian mercenaries’ release epitomizes the ongoing hostilities and shift in power dynamics. The locals are left to grapple with uncertainty as M23 consolidates its authority, raising critical questions about regional stability and international complicity in ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: news.sky.com
