M23 Rebels Abduct 130 Hospital Patients in Eastern Congo, UN Reports
In a deeply concerning development, the United Nations has reported that M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, abducted at least 130 patients from two hospitals in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Details of the Abduction
On the night of February 28, M23 fighters stormed CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital in Goma. They forcibly removed 116 patients from CBCA Ndosho and 15 from Heal Africa, targeting individuals they suspected to be Congolese army soldiers or members of the pro-government Wazalendo militia.
UN Condemnation
UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani condemned the abductions, stating, “We are gravely concerned for the safety and well-being of these individuals and call for their immediate release.”
Ongoing Conflict in Eastern Congo
The abductions are part of escalating tensions in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have seized significant territories, including Goma, since January. This conflict has resulted in approximately 7,000 deaths and displaced nearly half a million people.
International Response
The international community has expressed alarm over the situation. Efforts to broker peace have so far been unsuccessful, and the region remains volatile.
Source : Swifteradio.com
