By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), violent clashes between local Wazalendo militias and the M23 rebel group in North Kivu’s Rutshuru territory led to the deaths of at least 16 villagers.
Isaac Kibira, an administrative official in Rutshuru, reported that “the M23 rebel position was attacked by the Wazalendo youth, and unfortunately, seven civilians died.” In a separate incident, a vehicle was set on fire, killing nine passengers. Authorities confirmed that none of the deceased were involved in the fighting.
This latest violence, which erupted despite a recently announced ceasefire intended to aid millions of displaced people, has raised serious concerns about the truce’s sustainability. Eastern DRC remains overrun by more than 120 armed groups, including the M23, vying for control of the region’s valuable resources. The ongoing conflict has created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, displacing over 7 million people and leaving many without access to crucial aid.
Sources:
Africanews
AP News
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