M23 Claims Attack in Bukavu Resulting in Multiple Casualties

The M23 rebel group claimed responsibility for an attack in Bukavu that left 11 dead and at least 16 injured, utilizing grenades similar to those used by the Burundian military. Eyewitness reports describe widespread chaos at a civilian gathering, and both the Congolese government and the M23 blame each other for the violence. President Tshisekedi condemned the assault, linking it to foreign forces and heightening the ongoing regional tensions.

The M23 rebel group has reported that a recent attack in Bukavu resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, utilizing grenades resembling those employed by the Burundian military. The assault occurred during a gathering of civilians, who had assembled to listen to the leader of AfC/M23. In addition to the fatalities, at least 16 others were injured, prompting urgent medical attention in local hospitals.

Following this event, Gaspard Baratuza, a spokesperson for the Burundian military, dismissed the claims of any involvement, characterizing the incident as acts of violence and affirming that no soldiers were present in Bukavu. The M23 has since apprehended two individuals allegedly responsible for what they have termed a “terrorist attack” on civilians in Bukavu.

Corneille Nangaa, while briefing the media, confirmed the preliminary death toll of 11, including one woman, and reported a total of 65 injuries, with six individuals in critical condition. He also mentioned that one of the deceased was believed to be one of the attackers.

The M23 accused the Congolese government, led by President Félix Tshisekedi, of orchestrating the attack, while authorities attributed it to foreign armed forces present in the region. Eyewitness accounts indicate that over 10,000 people had gathered at a location known as Place du 24 for the M23 event when the explosions erupted, leading to widespread panic and chaos.

A journalist who was on the scene reported seeing over five lifeless bodies and numerous injuries following the blasts, with expectations that the death toll may rise as further reports emerge. The true extent of the situation remains unclear.

Bertrand Bisimwa, deputy to Corneille Nangaa, labeled the violence as state-sponsored killing by President Tshisekedi’s administration and indicated via social media that there was a coordinated effort against the meeting attendees. President Tshisekedi expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and condemned the attack as an act of terrorism executed by foreign forces in violation of Congolese sovereignty.

Kinshasa authorities have repeatedly charged that Rwandan troops are behind these assaults, a claim that Rwanda has consistently denied. Video footage of the horrific aftermath surfaced across various social media platforms, depicting the scene at Place du 24 in Bukavu. The attack occurred as Corneille Nangaa was communicating plans to maintain control of Uvira and Fizi. In his address, he noted that if local banks failed to operate, drastic measures would be taken concerning their management.

The recent attack in Bukavu attributed to the M23 group has resulted in significant casualties, leading to accusations between governments regarding the involvement of foreign forces. Eyewitnesses and officials alike report a situation of chaos and uncertainty, with ongoing investigations into the true nature of the violence. The political implications surrounding this incident underscore the complexities of the ongoing conflict in the region. President Tshisekedi’s condemnation of the attacks highlights the ongoing tensions and claims regarding foreign military presence in the Congo, further complicating the humanitarian crisis faced by civilians.

Original Source: www.bbc.com