The territory of Rutshuru, particularly the Binza grouping, is currently in the grip of an alarming situation following the capture of the city of Ishasha by the M23 rebels. This attack, which occurred on Sunday August 4, caused concern among residents of the region. Ishasha, the second largest border post between the DRC and Uganda after Bunagana, is a strategic area whose security is crucial for regional stability.
The occupation of the town of Ishasha occurred following an armed clash between local Wazalendo fighters and M23 rebels. This escalation of violence caused the displacement of certain civil service executives and officers of the Congolese National Police, forced to take refuge in neighboring Uganda to escape the fighting.
The situation is all the more worrying in the fishing village of Nyakakoma, near Ishasha, where the population, fearing an advance by the rebels, is taking precautionary measures. Residents decided to flee in canoes towards Lubero or Beni, seeking protection from the violence and unrest shaking the region.
Since the start of hostilities in the area, certain villages in the Binza groupement have fallen under the control of the rebels, despite the humanitarian truce recently concluded between the DRC and Rwanda. This resumption of fighting compromises the peace and security efforts deployed in the region, endangering the lives of civilians and the stability of the region.
Faced with this escalation of violence, it is imperative that the competent authorities act quickly to protect civilian populations, ensure compliance with international agreements and restore peace in the Rutshuru region. The involvement of regional and international actors is essential to find a lasting solution to this crisis and avoid an escalation of armed clashes in eastern DRC.