Authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo say at least 773 people have been killed in Goma and surrounding areas over the past week, following intense fighting with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The rebels have captured the city, marking a major escalation in the decade-long conflict.
Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya said the death toll could be higher, as reports suggest mass graves exist, and bodies have been removed. The M23 rebels, supported by about 4,000 Rwandan troops, continue to battle for control in the mineral-rich eastern region.Â
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Meanwhile, hundreds of displaced residents have begun returning to Goma after the rebels promised to restore essential services. However, the conflict has disrupted humanitarian operations, with aid delivery across eastern DRC now at a standstill.
UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix has warned that M23 forces are advancing rapidly towards South Kivu’s capital, Bukavu. The capture of a key airport nearby could further escalate the crisis.
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