The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has initiated an evacuation of civilians in response to the recent attack in the eastern part of the country. The mission, MONUSCO, has deployed troops to establish a secure corridor for people fleeing the escalating violence.
Approximately 1,000 displaced individuals have sought shelter since Friday after escaping the town of Mweso. Tutsi-led M23 rebels carried out attacks in which around 20 people were killed, as reported by the army and a civil society leader.
This incident marks the latest consequence of ongoing clashes between Congolese troops and M23, causing significant displacement and exacerbating the region’s enduring security and humanitarian crisis.
MONUSCO spokesperson Ndeye Khady Lo revealed that the conflict is unfolding near the mission’s Nyanzale base. Peacekeepers are being mobilized to patrol the area and safeguard civilians from the violence.
Guillaume Kaiko Ndjike, the spokesperson for the Congolese army in North Kivu, stated that M23 fighters have been firing indiscriminately since Saturday morning. Efforts are underway to contain the situation and protect the population.
Civil society leader Toby Kahangu reported that the rebels have taken control of Mweso, located approximately 80 km from Goma, the main city in North Kivu province. He also mentioned their movement towards the villages of Kachiru and Kashunga.
While the army and MONUSCO did not confirm the rebels’ control over Mweso, it is worth noting that this attack violates a ceasefire brokered by East African regional leaders. The ceasefire coincided with a plea for peace in east Congo made by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Blinken emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts following recent communications with the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a diplomatic crisis between Congo and neighboring Rwanda, with Kinshasa accusing Rwanda of supporting the rebels—a claim denied by Rwanda.