The rebel group M23 has taken control of the state broadcaster’s building in Goma, eastern Congo, according to Congolese media reports. Around 2,000 detainees reportedly escaped from the city’s largest prison following a fire.
A former inmate stated that all prisoners, including women, men, and minors, managed to flee. Goma, with a population of about two million, is the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and borders Rwanda.
M23, which the UN and Congo claim is supported by Rwanda, has recently gained significant ground around the city, causing hundreds of thousands of civilians to flee. Yesterday, M23 fighters reached Goma’s outskirts, though it is unclear if the entire city has fallen to the rebels.
The group declared the city “liberated” overnight, but Congolese authorities have not confirmed this. Verified footage shows military vehicles from the government army patrolling the city streets.
The Congolese government states that its forces continue to resist the advancing rebels in Goma, aiming to prevent bloodshed. The public has been urged to stay indoors and refrain from looting.
According to Congo and the United Nations, the government forces are battling not only M23 fighters but also Rwandan troops in the area. The UN reports about 4,000 Rwandan soldiers fighting alongside M23, with UN chief Guterres calling for their withdrawal.
Source: NOS