Violent clashes broke out this Sunday morning in the region of Tongo and Bushusha, Bwito chiefdom, in the territory of Rutshuru, in the province of North Kivu. Local armed groups clashed with M23 rebels, creating a chaotic and dangerous situation for civilians.
Sources on site report that the fighting took place in several localities, including Rushovu, Kihonga, Rushege and Kisangani. The coalition of local armed groups attempted to block the passage of M23 reinforcements and sought to occupy Bwiza, an important rebel stronghold.
The consequences of these clashes are already visible, with civilians injured and bomb detonations heard in the region. The situation remains uncertain and precarious, particularly in Kitshanga, in Masisi territory, where clashes have also been reported.
These clashes add to an already long list of violence in the North Kivu region. The civilian population is taken hostage between the different armed groups and the rebel forces, suffering the disastrous consequences of this armed conflict.
It is crucial that the competent authorities and the international community act quickly to put an end to this violence and ensure the safety of local populations. Steps must be taken to disarm armed groups and promote peace in the region.
In conclusion, the situation in the Tongo and Bushusha region in North Kivu is extremely worrying with clashes between local armed groups and the M23 rebels. Civilians are the main victims of this conflict, and it is imperative that measures are taken to guarantee their safety and end this violence. The efforts of the international community are essential to achieve a peaceful resolution to this conflict.