M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, abducted 130 hospital patients in eastern Congo’s Goma, targeting those suspected of ties to the Congolese army. The United Nations condemned these actions, calling for the immediate release of the victims. The conflict has claimed approximately 3,000 lives this year, marking a significant escalation in violence.
In a troubling development, Rwanda-supported M23 rebels have abducted 130 individuals, primarily patients, from hospitals in Goma, eastern Congo. This incident was confirmed by the United Nations, which reported that the raids occurred on February 28 at CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital. M23 fighters specifically targeted individuals they suspected of being members of the Congolese army or affiliated with the government militia Wazalendo.
Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the U.N. Human Rights Office, expressed grave concern, stating, “It is deeply distressing that M23 is snatching patients from hospital beds in coordinated raids and holding them incommunicado in undisclosed locations.” Shamdasani has called for the immediate release of those abducted, highlighting the alarming tactics employed by the M23 rebels.
The M23 group has rapidly advanced in eastern Congo, capturing significant territories and contributing to the deaths of approximately 3,000 individuals this year alone. Originally seizing Goma, the primary city in eastern Congo, this offensive has marked one of the most severe escalations in conflict seen within the past decade. The region is known for its abundant natural resources, including gold and coltan, essential for consumer electronics.
Reports indicate that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops are backing the M23 rebels. These forces have ambitions to extend their reach all the way to Kinshasa, the capital of Congo, which is over 1,000 miles away. Meanwhile, Rwanda has accused the Congolese government of recruiting ethnic Hutu fighters, linked to the 1994 genocide against Tutsis in Rwanda.
The M23 rebels justify their actions by claiming to protect the rights of Tutsis and Congolese nationals of Rwandan heritage against discrimination and aim to reform Congo’s governance. However, many analysts suggest these motivations are mere pretexts for Rwanda’s continued involvement in the regional conflict. In a separate incident, recent explosions during a rally for M23 leaders in Bukavu resulted in at least 11 fatalities and numerous injuries.
The recent abduction of 130 patients by M23 rebels in eastern Congo underscores the severity of the ongoing conflict, which has rapidly escalated this year. The United Nations has condemned these actions, calling for immediate action to secure the release of the detained individuals. With growing tensions surrounding regional involvement, particularly from Rwanda, the dynamics of the conflict continue to evolve, raising concerns for the safety and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
