Crisis in Bukavu: Rwanda-backed Rebels Advance Amidst Chaos in Eastern Congo
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advanced towards Bukavu, causing widespread panic and disorder as thousands of residents fled. The situation became volatile following the abandonment of Congolese troops, leading to looting and violence in the streets. While some calm returned briefly, the ongoing conflict raises significant concerns regarding regional stability and humanitarian crises, prompting urgent calls for ceasefire and intervention.
Panic gripped the city of Bukavu, the second-largest in eastern Congo, as thousands of residents and soldiers hurried to flee from the approaching Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Following the rebels’ arrival near the city, chaos ensued with some attempting to escape on flooded streets while others engaged in looting, taking whatever supplies they could find amidst the turmoil. A brief calm returned after Congolese troops abandoned their posts, leaving the city vulnerable to looters who took advantage of the situation.
Residents expressed shock at the violence, reporting bodies left burned in the streets, victims of the looting unrest. As one local described, the looters set fire to ammunition camps, worsening the instability. Many citizens reportedly faced dangers from stray bullets, with some of the remaining soldiers joining in the looting. Reports surfaced of widespread chaos, with factories pillaged and prisons broken into, while essential services remained operational.
The situation in Bukavu demonstrates the severe crisis that has escalated due to rebel advances and the turmoil that follows. The unrest not only threatens the safety of local inhabitants but also presents a larger challenge to regional stability, prompting calls for international intervention and a return to order. As violence rages on, the pressing need for coordinated efforts to restore peace becomes apparent.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
