Rebels Seize Key City in Eastern Congo, Sparking Widespread Fear
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the city of Uvira in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has plunged into fear and instability following its capture by the March 23 rebels.
Uvira served as the last government stronghold in the South Kivu province. Its control now grants the rebels the ability to establish a broad corridor of influence in eastern Congo.
Eyewitness reports indicate civilians were caught in crossfire while attempting to flee, resulting in numerous fatalities. Local sources estimate the death toll to be over 400, with approximately 200,000 people displaced.
Despite a peace agreement between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda, the situation remains volatile in eastern Congo. The streets of Uvira are deserted and banks are closed. The March 23 forces patrol the city, and residents remain indoors after dark.
The rebel advance has heightened concerns about the conflict spreading to neighboring countries, particularly Burundi. The United States has accused Rwanda of supporting the rebel attacks and violating the peace agreement, issuing warnings regarding these actions.
Regional efforts to resolve the crisis are ongoing, but residents of Uvira continue to face emergency conditions and uncertainty about the future.
The March 23 group is an armed rebel group in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, primarily composed of former members of the Congolese national army. The group takes its name from the March 23, 2009 agreement, in which the rebels and the Congolese government reached an accord. However, the group later withdrew from the agreement and resorted to armed action against the government.
