M23 advance forces over 100,000 to flee eastern DR Congo

The M23 rebel group has rapidly advanced toward Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, forcing over 178,000 people to flee in the past two weeks.

The fighting has intensified along the border with Rwanda, with civilians scrambling for safety. As the M23 rebels close in, the situation grows increasingly dire.

On Tuesday, Congolese authorities confirmed the rebels had seized Minova, a critical town located on a key supply route to Goma. This marks a significant step in the group’s ongoing campaign.

The M23 is just one of nearly 100 armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich region of eastern Congo. This long-running conflict has displaced over 7 million people, contributing to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

Human rights organizations and U.N. experts have long accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, though the Rwandan government denies these claims. The United Nations confirmed that the latest surge in displacement is the result of fighting near Minova in South Kivu.

Thousands of civilians have sought refuge in Goma, where they were seen arriving in overcrowded boats, some carrying belongings wrapped in cloth. Nzulo camp, located on Goma’s outskirts, has become a temporary shelter for many.

David Kasereka, one of the displaced, fled with his child, fearing the approaching rebels. “We don’t know where we are going, because everywhere, the bombs are following us,” he said, desperation evident in his voice.

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