Title: Violent clashes between M23 rebels and self-defense groups rock North Kivu
Introduction :
North Kivu, a province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is once again the scene of violent clashes between M23 rebels and vigilante groups. Since early this morning, the front lines of Masisi and Rutshuru have been the scene of deadly fighting, resulting in a massive displacement of populations in search of safety. While the results of these clashes are not yet known, the inhabitants live in psychosis, awaiting a possible intervention by the Congolese army. In this article, we look back at the unfolding events and the calls for action to end this violence.
Development :
In Masisi, clashes increased on several axes, including Kilolirwe-Kanzenze, Ngajo-Kausa, Kibugu, Muheto-Nyamitaba and Nyakariba. The M23 rebels launched the offensive and reportedly took control of the locality of Kausa, in the Bashali-Kaembe groupement. This progress arouses great concern among the population, who are forced to flee to areas considered safer. Vigilante groups also face increased violence, fueling a destructive cycle of violence.
In the territory of Rutshuru, the clashes are concentrated in the Tongo groupement, where several civilians have been murdered. Faced with this alarming situation, the citizen movement “Vision for the Victory of the People” denounces the inaction of the Regional Force of the East African Community (EAC) and calls for an urgent deployment of the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo ( FARDC) and the Congolese National Police (PNC) to protect the innocent civilian victims of these massacres.
Conclusion :
The current violence in North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo is alarming and requires urgent action. Clashes between M23 rebels and self-defence groups are causing human casualties and massive population displacement. Faced with this situation, it is crucial that the Congolese authorities and regional actors take adequate measures to protect civilians and resolve this conflict