In a tragic event that underscores the dire human rights situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the United Nations has reported that more than 100 female prisoners were subjected to horrific acts of violence during a jailbreak in Goma. This incident occurred last Monday when chaos erupted as fighters from the M23 rebel group advanced on the city, resulting in mass escapes from the Munzenze prison.
An internal UN document revealed that between 165 and 167 women were assaulted by male inmates during the tumultuous breakout. Most shockingly, many of the women were killed when inmates allegedly set the prison ablaze. The BBC has been unable to independently verify these alarming reports.
The situation in Goma, a city home to over a million people, intensified as M23 forces captured it, leading to widespread panic and violence. Residents witnessed bodies strewn in the streets and missile attacks near residential areas, contributing to an overall state of dread and insecurity. Footage from the jailbreak depicts people fleeing against a backdrop of smoke and heavy gunfire.
As the violence escalated, the death toll from clashes between M23 forces and Congolese military and their allies has reached alarming figures, with the government reporting over 2,000 deaths, while the UN cites at least 900 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries. The discrepancy in reported casualties raises questions about the ongoing situation and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
Despite a recent announcement from the M23 rebels regarding a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, renewed fighting has been reported, putting more lives at risk and leaving many trapped in a cycle of violence and suffering. The situation continues to evolve, and the international community watches closely as the human rights crisis deepens in DRC.
