Goma Under M23 Control: A City Gripped by Fear and Violence

The city of Goma in DR Congo has fallen under the control of the M23 rebel group, leading to significant casualties and overwhelming medical crises. Many residents express fear amid the rebels’ presence and the impact of ongoing violence on trade and daily life. The situation highlights the broader issues of instability and humanitarian needs facing the eastern region.

Upon entering the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, one might initially overlook the conflict raging nearby. Streets were bustling with activity, as commuters and vendors went about their daily routines. However, a stark reminder of the shifting power dynamics became evident at a checkpoint manned by M23 rebel fighters, who recently seized control of the city following a rapid offensive against government forces.

Reports indicate that the M23’s assault resulted in at least 700 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries. The M23 rebel group, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, claims their fight is aimed at securing rights for minorities. In contrast, the Congolese government accuses them of seeking dominion over the region’s lucrative mineral resources. Upon reaching the checkpoint, M23 personnel briefly questioned my driver before permitting us entry into the city.

Inside a hospital struggling to treat the wounded, I encountered Dr. Nathaniel Cirho, who was himself injured while aiding neighbors during an explosion. He recounted, “I sustained an injury on my arm. A 65-year-old man was injured on his abdomen. After surgery, he didn’t survive.” In another area of the hospital, an elderly woman described how she had removed a bullet from her arm after also being caught in the crossfire, emphasizing the harrowing conditions faced by residents.

Medics in Goma’s few operational hospitals are overwhelmed by the influx of patients injured in the recent conflict. A doctor at a private facility noted, “We have treated most of them because we had contingency plans,” revealing that over 700 individuals with varying degrees of injury were currently being cared for. The situation is dire, with increasing numbers of gunshot victims, and reports of sexual violence being perpetrated as a weapon of war have emerged.

Despite a reduction in gunfire, the city retains an atmosphere of apprehension. Many shops remain closed, and locals express fear regarding the lingering presence of the M23 fighters. As shopkeeper Sammy Matabishi observed, “People are afraid… I am still afraid because those who caused the tension are still with us.” He noted that trade has suffered dramatically, impacting livelihoods as many customers seek refuge in bordering nations.

The M23 rebels have taken control of strategic points within Goma, and their presence is palpable across the city. Observations indicate no visible Congolese soldiers, but substantial evidence of military presence remains. Richard Ali, a local resident, described how many government forces abandoned their posts upon the rebels’ arrival, switching to civilian clothing in a bid to escape.

While the Congolese government refutes M23’s claims of complete control over Goma, tensions remain high. Rwanda, previously denying involvement, has altered its rhetoric, suggesting concerns about security threats stemming from border skirmishes. As the rebels advance towards the southern regions, Goma’s current struggles may foreshadow what lies ahead for much of Congo as the conflict continues to escalate.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently experiencing significant political unrest, particularly in the eastern regions, which are rich in natural resources. The M23 rebel group has capitalized on this instability by launching a recent offensive to capture Goma, a strategic city. This has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with thousands hurt and hospitals overwhelmed with casualties, prompting international concern about the humanitarian implications of the conflict.

The capture of Goma by M23 rebels marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict within the Democratic Republic of Congo. The devastation inflicted upon the civilian population, evidenced by the heavy toll of injuries and fatalities, underscores the urgency for attention to humanitarian needs. As international observers continue to monitor the situation, the fate of Goma could represent a grim prognosis for broader peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk