Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized control of Nyabibwe, a mining town in South Kivu province, despite declaring a ceasefire earlier this week. The capture raises concerns about a renewed push towards the provincial capital, Bukavu.
Rwanda n-backed M23 rebels have seized control of the mining town of Nyabibwe in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's South Kivu province, according to eight sources. This move comes despite the rebels' declaration of a unilateral ceasefire earlier this week. The capture of Nyabibwe , a key commercial hub located on Lake Kivu, significantly advances the rebels' position towards the provincial capital Bukavu , situated approximately 70 kilometers south.
While M23 stated last week they had no intentions of capturing Bukavu, their recent actions suggest a possible shift in strategy.Eight individuals, including local officials, a representative from civil society, rebel fighters, and an international security source, confirmed the fall of Nyabibwe to the M23 forces. Eyewitnesses reported clashes beginning at 5 a.m. local time, culminating in the rebels taking control of the town center by 9 a.m. Nyabibwe, known for its gold, coltan, and other metal mines, serves as a vital economic center between Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, which M23 seized last week, and Bukavu.Congolese Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya stated that the rebels violated the ceasefire during the night and are currently facing resistance from Congolese armed forces around Nyabibwe. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance rebel coalition, which includes M23, acknowledged the group's movement into Nyabibwe, claiming they acted in self-defense after being attacked. This advance could signify a renewed push by M23 towards Bukavu, following their capture of Goma last week. The situation has sparked fears of a wider regional conflict and raised concerns about the safety of civilians in the region.
M23 Rebels Democratic Republic Of Congo South Kivu Nyabibwe Ceasefire Bukavu Rwanda Conflict
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