Fighting continues in the eastern city of Goma, DR Congo, as rebels and the army clash. Residents describe the city as filled with gunfire, and many have been trapped in their homes. The M23 rebel group claims to control Goma, but the government denies it. Clashes are ongoing in parts of the city, and at least 17 people have been killed, with over 300 injured.

The fighting has displaced tens of thousands of people from nearby towns. The M23 rebels have taken control of Goma’s state-run TV station, and some residents are hiding due to the gunfire. The situation has prompted fears as both sides battle for control. The UN has reported that roads are blocked, and the airport in Goma, which was used for evacuation, is no longer functional.

The violence has spread across the border to Rwanda, where five civilians were killed and 25 seriously injured in a nearby town. The M23 group has been advancing rapidly in eastern DR Congo, and thousands of people are fleeing for their lives, with many uncertain of where to go.

Rwanda is accused of supporting the rebels, which it denies, while also claiming that the Congolese government is backing militias trying to overthrow the Rwandan government. Despite calls for a ceasefire, the conflict continues to escalate. The UN has urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces and called on the rebels to stop their advance, but the situation remains tense.

The M23 group originally formed in 2012 to protect the Tutsi population but has been accused of looting minerals from the region. Both the UN and DR Congo accuse Rwanda of backing the M23, while Rwanda blames DR Congo for harboring genocidaires. The future of Goma remains uncertain as the battle for control intensifies.

(Original source: BBC)

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qwlkydxxko

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