M23 Attack in Bukavu Leaves 11 Dead Amid Rising Tensions in DR Congo
The M23 group in Bukavu reported an attack that left 11 dead and several injured using grenades reminiscent of Burundian military weaponry during a public gathering. The incident led to significant panic, with conflicting accounts of responsibility from the M23, Burundian military, and DR Congo’s government. Eyewitnesses reported an overwhelming presence of civilians and ongoing investigations into the attack’s circumstances.
In Bukavu, DR Congo, the M23 group reported a violent attack that resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, executed using grenades reminiscent of those utilized by the Burundian military. This incident occurred during a gathering to listen to the leader of the AfC/M23, leading to significant casualties, including at least 16 injuries amid the chaos. Reports indicate that the attacks involved grenades and that the survivors are being treated in local hospitals.
Following the attack, Gaspard Baratuza, the spokesperson for the Burundian military, denied involvement, labeling the violence as absurd and asserting that no Burundian troops were present in Bukavu at the time. The M23 further claimed that they apprehended two individuals responsible for what they termed a terrorist act against civilians. This assertion was refuted by the Congolese government, which attributed the violence to foreign militia forces.
Corneille Nangaa, addressing gathered crowds, confirmed the preliminary death toll and reported numerous serious injuries among the attendees, including women. Eyewitness accounts suggested that more than ten thousand individuals were present at the venue, and the sound of explosions led to widespread panic, with several victims reported on the scene. The death toll may rise as the scene was chaotic, and full details remain unclear.
Bertrand Bisimwa, Nangaa’s deputy, condemned the incident as an act of state-sponsored murder by President Tshisekedi’s administration, framing it as premeditated violence as hinted on social media prior to the event. President Tshisekedi expressed condolences to the victims’ families and denounced the attack as terrorist activity executed by unauthorized foreign forces on Congolese soil. The Kinshasa government accused Rwandan troops of involvement, a claim Rwanda has continuously denied.
Images depicting the aftermath of the attack circulated on social media outlets, showcasing the stark reality of the tragic events at Place du 24 in Bukavu. During the gathering, Nangaa had affirmed the determination of his group to expand their influence over additional territories, indicating a possible escalation of violence in the region. The situation remains fragile, and the response to the incident is still ongoing.
The M23 group’s attack in Bukavu highlights the escalating violence in the region, resulting in tragic civilian casualties and injuries. Conflicting narratives from the M23 and the Burundian military complicate accountability and response efforts. President Tshisekedi’s government continues to reject foreign military involvement claims, while the local population demands justice following this devastating event. As investigations proceed, regional peace remains in jeopardy.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
