Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have reportedly entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following a rapid advance after capturing Goma earlier this year. Witnesses confirmed the presence of the rebels in the city, with reports indicating minimal resistance faced by the militia. The local population is enduring fear and chaos, highlighted by incidents of violence and looting. The fall of Bukavu would mark a substantial territorial gain for the M23 since the onset of the current armed conflict in 2022, amidst ongoing discussions about the DRC situation at the African Union summit in Ethiopia.
I can see with my own eyes the M23 entering our town, a local official said, speaking on condition of anonymity for security reasons.
We are taking their bodies to the morgue. These were not stray bullets; the soldier did this out of his own will, Bisimwa told Al Jazeera.
The fall of Bukavu, if confirmed, would represent the most significant expansion of territory under the M23's control since the latest armed rebellion started in 2022.
The development comes as the African Union (AU) summit continues in Ethiopia. The conflict in the DRC has been a key topic of discussion at the AU.
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