AFC Rebels Progress into Bukavu Amid Reports of Looting and Unrest
The AFC rebel coalition has advanced into Bukavu, the DRC’s second-largest city, reporting looting and unrest. They claimed control over Kavumu airport and forced government troops to withdraw. The coalition’s actions follow their earlier takeover of Goma, amid accusations of support from Rwanda. Residents express fear and witness widespread looting due to the conflict.
In a significant development, the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) rebel coalition, which includes the M23 armed group, has made notable advancements into Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) second-largest city. Residents have reported witnessing looting and the presence of fighters within the city. The coalition asserted control over Kavumu airport in South Kivu, compelling government forces to retreat in disarray, effectively abandoning the provincial capital of Bukavu.
Despite the claims made by the AFC, there has been no official confirmation from the DRC government regarding the situation in Bukavu. Eyewitnesses have provided varying accounts about the extent of the rebels’ control within the city. This rapid progression follows shortly after the AFC’s takeover of Goma, the largest city in the adjacent North Kivu province.
The ongoing conflict in Goma has resulted in significant casualties, with governmental reports stating the death toll exceeds 3,000. The DRC and several Western nations have alleged that Rwanda is providing support to the M23 group, predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis who deserted the Congolese army over ten years ago. Rwandan President Paul Kagame remarked he was uncertain about the presence of his nation’s troops within the DRC.
Since 2022, the M23 has intensified its rebellion against the DRC government, seeking to represent the interests of Rwandophone communities. As part of the AFC, they have also overthrown control over valuable resource-rich areas in the eastern region, particularly those with deposits of coltan, essential in smartphone manufacturing. Despite various regional appeals for a ceasefire, the rebels persist in their territorial ambitions.
Victor Tesongo, the AFC spokesperson, highlighted the significance of the claimed captures of Goma and Bukavu, denoting the largest territorial gain for the group. The combined population of these cities exceeds three million residents. Discussions with a DRC military spokesperson confirmed that troops had retreated post-rebel occupation of the airport, and further attempts to acquire comments from the DRC authorities regarding these rebel advancements have been made.
Residents of Bukavu indicated the presence of M23 fighters, yet no significant confrontations have been observed. One local recounted seeing differences in the uniforms worn by the approaching fighters and mentioned the absence of clashes during their arrival. Another resident noted, “They are looting depots, warehouses and commercial houses,” attributing the acts of looting to fleeing soldiers and civilians. Security remains a pressing concern for the people of Bukavu, with residents now feeling exposed and vulnerable.
The situation in Bukavu reflects an escalating crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, as the AFC rebel coalition claims significant territorial gains. Despite reports of looting and unrest, the extent of the conflict’s impact on residents remains uncertain. The international community’s calls for tranquility contrast strikingly with the rebels’ unyielding ambitions in the region, indicating a protracted struggle for power and control.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
