A devastating escalation of violence has left at least 773 people dead in Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following intense fighting with the M23 rebels, who are allegedly backed by Rwanda. The conflict has shattered the region, with the body count and injuries continuing to rise.
The Congolese government reported that 2,880 people have been injured, many of whom are being treated in hospitals and morgues across Goma. Patrick Muyaya, the government spokesperson, confirmed the grim toll, though he cautioned that the true number of casualties may be even higher.
The M23 rebels, a notorious armed group, seized control of Goma earlier this week in what marks a significant intensification of the ongoing decade-long conflict in the region. Despite their advance, the Congolese military has managed to slow the rebels’ momentum, regaining control of some villages, but the situation remains precarious.
This escalation highlights the ongoing volatility in eastern DRC, which has long been plagued by militia groups, political instability, and regional tensions, particularly with Rwanda. International calls for peace and stability in the region have intensified as the humanitarian crisis deepens.
The death toll in Goma represents the latest chapter in a cycle of violence, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. The coming days will be critical as the international community continues to assess the impact of this crisis and push for renewed efforts towards a lasting resolution.
Army of the Democratic Republic of the Congo during M23 rebellion Photographs by MONUSCO CC-BY-SA-2.0
