M23 Rebels Advance in DRC as Government Offers Rewards for Leaders’ Capture

The M23 rebels have advanced in the DRC, capturing strategic cities and facing defections from government allies. The government has announced a $5 million reward for the capture of M23 leaders as violence escalates, leading to numerous civilian casualties and displacements.

The M23 rebel group has intensified its military activities in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), having recently taken control of the vital cities of Goma and Bukavu. Reports reveal that the rebels have advanced towards Nyabwindo village, located approximately 100 kilometers north of Goma, positioning themselves strategically near the crucial town of Walikale, which significantly contributes to government tax revenue due to its industrial mine.

The conflict in eastern DRC continues to escalate, marked by significant territorial gains for the M23 rebel group and troubling defections from government-aligned forces. In response, DRC authorities have offered a substantial financial reward for information leading to the capture of key rebel figures. The ongoing violence has already resulted in substantial civilian casualties and exacerbated humanitarian crises in the region.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com