Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have captured Minova in the DRC, moving within 40 kilometers of Goma. Fighting between M23 and the Congolese army has led to significant casualties and displacement. Confirmations of the town’s fall come from M23 leadership and local officials. Reports indicate an increase in civilian attacks and highlight the enduring humanitarian crisis in the region.
In recent developments, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have successfully captured the eastern town of Minova in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This strategic takeover positions the rebels approximately 40 kilometers from Goma, a vital provincial capital near the Rwandan border. The offensive follows the M23’s earlier capture of Masisi, prompting the Congolese army to initiate a counteroffensive to reclaim lost territory.
There has been ongoing conflict between the M23 and government forces in the valuable mineral region, displacing over 200,000 individuals. Corneille Nangaa, the leader of the Congo River Alliance which includes M23, confirmed the capture, stating, “Minova is in our hands.” Provincial governor Jean-Jacques Purusi corroborated this report, indicating a significant tactical gain for the rebels.
Additionally, there has been a marked increase in casualties, with local hospitals receiving a surge of wounded individuals. Myriam Favier, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in North Kivu, reported that between December 1 and 21, the hospital treated 100 patients, and 211 patients were admitted from January 1 to 20.
Since 2021, the M23 has intermittently engaged in combat, leading to severe humanitarian consequences. There were concerns regarding their potential advance towards Goma, a city with a population of one to two million. After a brief lull in fighting during late July, hostilities escalated again in October and intensified towards year’s end.
Amnesty International has indicated a distressing rise in civilian-targeted attacks from both parties within the past month. The M23 is often labeled as a proxy force for Rwanda, a claim that Rwanda denies; however, a UN report last year recognized the involvement of approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers alongside M23 fighters.
Numerous diplomatic attempts to negotiate peace have faltered, including recently scheduled talks between the leaders of Rwanda and the DRC, which were abruptly cancelled due to conflicting positions.
The conflict in the DRC, particularly in its eastern provinces, is rooted in complex historical, political, and ethnic tensions. The emergence of groups such as M23, often accused of being supported by neighboring Rwanda, has perpetuated cycles of violence, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. The ongoing resource exploitation in this region further complicates and fuels the conflict, with various factions vying for control while civilian populations bear the brunt of the violence. Despite international diplomatic efforts, lasting peace remains elusive as both tactical confrontations and human rights violations continue.
The recent capture of Minova by M23 rebels underscores the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo, further destabilizing the region and exacerbating humanitarian concerns. Despite previous counteroffensives by the Congolese army, the rebels’ advances suggest a challenging path ahead. Continuous international attention and diplomatic efforts are crucial in addressing the complexities of this persistent crisis to ultimately protect civilian lives and restore stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
