South African Troops Evacuated from Eastern Congo Amidst Rebel Offensive

In January, critically injured South African soldiers were evacuated from Congo amid rising violence from M23 rebels. The soldiers had been receiving care in Goma, which is currently under rebel control. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, drawing concern from the international community regarding the safety and preparedness of peacekeeping forces.

A group of critically injured South African peacekeepers, injured a month ago during combat in eastern Congo, has been evacuated by the United Nations, as reported by the South African National Defense Force. These soldiers received medical treatment in a hospital located in Goma, a city currently under the control of M23 rebels. The exact number of soldiers repatriated remains undisclosed, although another contingent is expected to return soon.

The M23 rebels, who are reportedly supported by approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda, seized Goma earlier this year amid ongoing offensives in eastern Congo, raising alarm in the international community. This ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with the Congolese government stating that around 7,000 people have lost their lives because of the hostilities. While efforts are being made to restore operations at Goma’s airport, the situation remains precarious.

According to union officials representing the armed forces, more than 100 South African soldiers requiring medical attention are being evacuated, with three among them needing urgent care. It was noted that two female soldiers who are pregnant are included in this repatriation. However, an official representative from the South African military declined to confirm these details.

The South African defense minister previously indicated that fourteen peacekeepers were killed in January due to crossfire during the M23 rebels’ offensive. Following this incident, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated the soldiers died as a result of direct attacks from the rebels. The bodies of these peacekeepers have already been returned to South Africa.

Recently, a spokesperson for the M23 stated that a total of 300 soldiers of various nationalities, including the injured South African troops, have departed eastern Congo. The South African government’s engagement in this peacekeeping mission has come under scrutiny regarding the preparation and equipping of their military personnel amidst allegations of disciplinary issues. Additionally, the involvement of Malawian and Tanzanian soldiers in this southern African force indicates a broader regional commitment to peacekeeping, which remains under threat as countries assess their participation amid escalating violence.

In conclusion, the evacuation of critically injured South African soldiers from eastern Congo highlights the dangers faced by peacekeepers amid escalating rebel offensives. The situation in Goma reflects a broader regional conflict exacerbated by external support for the M23 rebels. As the South African military faces scrutiny over its operational preparedness, the ongoing efforts of neighboring nations in peacekeeping remain precarious. The implications of this conflict are significant, both for the affected countries and for international peacekeeping efforts.

Original Source: apnews.com