Tragic Blasts at M23 Rebel Rally in Bukavu Leave 11 Dead and 65 Injured
In a devastating incident on Thursday, at least 11 individuals lost their lives, and 65 others sustained injuries during explosions at a rally organized by M23 rebel leaders in Bukavu, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recently seized by the group. The explosions occurred at Independence Square shortly after Corneille Nangaa, coordinator of the Alliance Fleuve—a coalition that includes M23—addressed the gathering. Nangaa reported that among the injured, six are in critical condition and currently undergoing surgery.
The M23 rebels have accused the Congolese government of orchestrating the attack, labeling it a deliberate act against civilian populations. Conversely, President Felix Tshisekedi condemned the incident as a “heinous terrorist act” perpetrated by a foreign army illegally present on Congolese soil, alluding to alleged Rwandan involvement.
This tragic event underscores the escalating tensions in eastern DRC, where the M23, reportedly bolstered by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, has captured key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, in a rapid three-week offensive. The region, rich in minerals such as gold and coltan—essential for electronic devices—has been a focal point of conflict, leading to significant civilian casualties and displacement.
Source : Swifteradio.com
