The M23 rebel group has expanded its territory in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, capturing the town of Kalembe on Sunday.
The Tutsi-led militia, which has been active in the region since 2022, has been accused of receiving support from neighboring Rwanda, a claim Rwanda denies.
The seizure of Kalembe, located in Walikale territory, came after months of rebel presence nearby.
The Congolese armed forces and allied militias were unable to hold the town against the M23 attack.
Many civilians fled to nearby Pinga to escape the violence.
The M23’s interest in the area is believed to be driven by its desire to exploit the region’s gold mines.
The group has been profiting from illegal mineral trade in areas under its control.
The ongoing conflict has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in North Kivu province, with millions of people displaced.
Negotiations between Congo and Rwanda in Angola aim to address the violence and find a lasting solution.
