M23 Rebels Seize Minova City in South Kivu – Latest Updates
In a shocking turn of events, the M23 rebels have taken control of Minova City in South Kivu, marking a significant advancement in their campaign. The rebels seized the city on Monday, January 20th, after intense clashes on the last hills of the Masisi territory in neighboring North Kivu.
Local Sources Confirm Rebel Incursion
Local sources report that the rebels entered Minova in the evening and have since spread out across the city and its surroundings to solidify their presence. They have taken over key positions previously held by the armed forces and local militias, including strategic locations like Katale, Kachiazo, and the hills overlooking Minova to control Lake Kivu.
According to a local official who remained in the city, the rebels are now moving towards Kalungu, just 7 kilometers from Minova, with plans to potentially link up with Nyabibwe, a hub for mining activities. This path also leads to Kavumu, where the airport is located.
Impact on Civilians and Humanitarian Concerns
The arrival of the M23 rebels in Minova has had immediate consequences on the local population. Prices of essential goods have soared, and thousands of displaced individuals from Masisi who had sought refuge in the area are now forced to flee once again. The situation is dire, with fears of widespread famine looming over the region.
A humanitarian source revealed that over 700,000 displaced persons in the Buzi area, including those from Masisi, Rutshuru, and Minova, are now on the move towards Goma through Kitembo and Nzulo. The humanitarian crisis is escalating rapidly, threatening the well-being of countless individuals.
Rebel Promises and Ongoing Conflict
Despite the chaos, the M23 rebels have assured the residents of Minova that schools will reopen within 48 hours and that the main road connecting Minova to Goma will be operational again. The rebels’ presence in the region has disrupted daily life and heightened tensions as they continue their advance towards Kalungu, where the latest clashes are focused.
The situation in South Kivu remains fluid as the conflict between the rebels and government forces shows no signs of abating. The capture of Minova represents a significant development in the ongoing turmoil gripping the region, with implications that extend far beyond the city itself. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving crisis.