M23 rebels continue attacks in eastern Congo

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo

Wazalendo militiamen, known as “patriots,” in coalition with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, or FARDC, face recurring attacks in Saké from M23 rebels who are supported by Rwanda, according to UN reports.

The fighting in Masisi, in the east of the country, is concentrated around the strategic town, causing concern for the population.

“Every morning our tea is gunshots and this makes us fear and worry for our lives,” Sake resident Tukuli Ibiro told Anodolu.

Fighting between the M23 rebels and government forces has intensified since Feb. 7 around Saké, a strategic town on the road to Goma in eastern Congo. But despite the objective of seizing the city, the M23 seems to be far from achieving its goal.

Several towns, including the rural commune of Kanyabayonga-center in the Lubero territory, fell under the control of the M23 rebels.

The conquest of the localities follows violent fighting between the FARDC and M23, according to the Congolese government and UN reports.

Lubero Territory Administrator Col. Alain Kiwewa confirmed Thursday that fighting continues around the territories of Miriki and Kimaka.

“So far the fighting has continued and the rebels have dropped several bombs which left five people dead, including a child, as well as several injured,” he told Anadolu.

Clashes in Masisi in western Goma have caused displacements and left several dozen injured who were transported to overwhelmed health centers, underlying humanitarian sources.

“Every day we receive calls from injured people and we give them help, some recover and others die,” Dr. Ngyeko Kahindo, a health worker in Sake, told Anadolu.

FARDC spokesperson Gen. Sylvain Ekenge indicated that “intense fighting” is often reported “on the axis between Saké and Minova,” about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Goma, in the neighboring province of South Kivu.

Authorities in Kinshasa accuse the Rwandan government not only of “supporting the M23 forces” but also of “penetrating and invading” the Congolese army directly on its territory.

Complaints by Congo seem to be confirmed by various reports from UN experts who affirm the presence of Rwandan troops on Congolese soil -- a claim Rwanda denies.

Clashes this week have displaced hundreds of residents in Sake who are now seeking refuge in an internally displaced person camp and others with host families, churches or schools.

The territories of Rutshuru and Masisi in North Kivu have forced more than 1.3 million people to flee their homes in the Congo, leading to 5.7 million residents displaced within t North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri, The level of violence has reached a “devastating level,” according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.