Update on the Situation of M23/RDF Fighters in the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently facing a tense situation as the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) continue their battles against rebels from the M23 group and the Rwandan army in various regions of the country. The FARDC have reported ongoing combat on multiple fronts in the East of the country, specifically in areas like Lubero, Sake, Nyiragongo, Bweremana, and Minova.
Recent Developments
According to a statement released by the FARDC on Tuesday, enemy assaults in the Southern part of Lubero, the heights of Sake, and Nyiragongo have been successfully repelled, resulting in significant losses for the opposing forces in terms of manpower and equipment. However, the army has acknowledged that M23 rebels supported by the Rwandan army managed to infiltrate Bweremana and seize control of the city of Minova, a strategically important location in the Kalehe territory of South Kivu.
On Monday night, M23/RDF fighters took control of Minova after intense clashes on the hills of Masisi. Witnesses on the ground reported a swift consolidation of positions by the M23, securing key areas like Katale, Kachiazo, and the hills overlooking Lake Kivu. Local sources mentioned that the rebels are advancing towards Kalungu, seven kilometers from Minova, with plans to reach Nyabibwe, a town with mining sites, providing direct access to Kavumu airport.
Humanitarian Crisis
The occupation of Minova has exacerbated an already critical humanitarian situation, leading to a rise in prices of essential goods and prompting thousands of displaced individuals from Masisi and Rutshuru to flee once again, adding to the 700,000 people already registered in the Buzi group. This has raised concerns about potential famine affecting a large number of individuals, with displaced families and host families now making their way to Goma under precarious conditions.
In response to these developments, the army has urged the population to remain calm, condemning what they describe as widespread misinformation being spread by opposing forces on social media platforms. They have assured that they are taking necessary measures to counter the advances of the M23 group and restore peace in the affected areas.