In a harrowing account of violence, reports indicate that M23 rebels are allegedly responsible for the massacre of young men in Goma, raising alarms about the deteriorating safety in the region.
'Massacre Allegations Emerge as M23 Rebels Consolidate Power in Eastern DR Congo'
'Massacre Allegations Emerge as M23 Rebels Consolidate Power in Eastern DR Congo'
As fear grips Goma, allegations surface detailing the brutal killings of civilians by M23 rebels, highlighting ongoing instability.
The chilling events began on February 22, when Freddy Mukuza, a local musician and activist, was shot by the rebels during an attack that left at least 17 others dead. Witnesses reveal that M23 fighters arrived in pick-up trucks in the Kasika neighborhood, declaring their authority over the area following their recent conquest of the city.
One witness recounted how they were unable to reach Mukuza while he took his last breaths due to rebel gunfire warning them not to approach. As reports of the massacre spread, local residents and families were left in fear, with many reluctant to speak out against the rebels for fear of violence.
Human rights organizations have condemned the actions of the M23, which operate with the backing of neighboring Rwanda, as they continue to exert control over the area's population. "We believed they came to bring peace, but instead, they came to exterminate us," lamented a local resident.
Despite the grave allegations, M23 leadership has neither confirmed nor denied the reports, leaving the community in a state of terror and uncertainty as they uphold their control over Goma and surrounding regions.
The unfolding situation continues to present a pressing humanitarian crisis, as families grapple with loss while fearing for their lives amidst the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo.
One witness recounted how they were unable to reach Mukuza while he took his last breaths due to rebel gunfire warning them not to approach. As reports of the massacre spread, local residents and families were left in fear, with many reluctant to speak out against the rebels for fear of violence.
Human rights organizations have condemned the actions of the M23, which operate with the backing of neighboring Rwanda, as they continue to exert control over the area's population. "We believed they came to bring peace, but instead, they came to exterminate us," lamented a local resident.
Despite the grave allegations, M23 leadership has neither confirmed nor denied the reports, leaving the community in a state of terror and uncertainty as they uphold their control over Goma and surrounding regions.
The unfolding situation continues to present a pressing humanitarian crisis, as families grapple with loss while fearing for their lives amidst the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo.
