The M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwandan forces, has seized control of another key city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, intensifying fears of a possible territorial breakup.
On Sunday, columns of M23 fighters entered the centre of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, after having reached its outskirts on Friday.
The capture of Bukavu, a city of one million people, follows M23’s takeover of Goma, the capital of neighbouring North Kivu province, at the end of January. This latest victory gives the rebels full control over Lake Kivu, a strategic waterway, while the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) offered little resistance before retreating.
As the rebels entered the city, some Bukavu residents welcomed them with applause, gathering on the streets and balconies.
Near the border with Rwanda, some chanted in support of M23, expressing hopes for change and job opportunities. Others hailed the fighters as liberators and even called for a march on the Congolese capital, Kinshasa.
The FARDC’s withdrawal left behind abandoned weapons, which were quickly picked up by civilians and looters.
Over the weekend, widespread looting took place, with men, women, and children storming shops and warehouses, making off with bags of flour, oil, and cases of beer.
Many residents took refuge in their homes to avoid the chaos, while sporadic gunfire continued on Sunday near the military base as M23 fighters pursued remaining soldiers and looters.
As the crisis escalates, the international community has ramped up calls for Rwanda to withdraw its military support for M23.
Although Kigali denies its involvement, the Congolese government claims that at least 4,000 Rwandan troops are in the eastern DRC, allegedly seeking control over lucrative mineral resources and agricultural land.
The African Union has strongly opposed any division of the DRC, with Peace and Security Commissioner Bankole Adeoye urging an immediate withdrawal of M23 and its allies from all occupied towns and cities, including Goma airport.
Similarly, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the need to respect the DRC’s territorial integrity and prevent the conflict from escalating into a full-scale regional war.
France called for an immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops, while Britain warned on Sunday that the offensive risks triggering a broader regional conflict.
Despite these urgent appeals for de-escalation and a ceasefire, fighting continues as the crisis deepens.
