A deadly mortar attack hit an AFC/M23 rally in Bukavu, killing at least 11 people and injuring over 60 civilians shortly after leader Corneille Nangaa addressed supporters.
The attack follows M23’s recent takeover of key eastern cities, including Bukavu and Goma, heightening tensions in the region. It occurred just moments after Nangaa pledged to establish new leadership in South Kivu within days.
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As mortar shells struck near the gathering, chaos erupted, with survivors fleeing while the injured were rushed to hospitals.
The origin of the attack remains unclear, but M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa accused the Congolese government of orchestrating an assassination attempt on Nangaa. He also condemned Kinshasa’s ongoing airstrikes in South Kivu, alleging indiscriminate violence.
Meanwhile, Congolese authorities blamed a “foreign army,” hinting at Rwanda, and vowed to escalate military operations against M23, which now controls both Bukavu and Goma.
With these latest rebel advances, the conflict has entered a critical phase, raising fears of further instability. Security in Bukavu has been reinforced as investigations into the attack continue.
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