Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo – Tragedy struck eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as twin bomb blasts rocked two camps for displaced people, claiming the lives of at least 12 individuals, including children. The attacks targeted the Lac Vert and Mugunga camps near the city of Goma, leading to injuries of over 20 people in what the United Nations has labeled a violation of human rights and potentially constituting a war crime.
Residents reported that the victims were caught off guard in their tents as the bombs hit the camps, prompting a flurry of chaos and panic. The Congolese military and the United States pointed fingers at the Rwandan army and the M23 rebel group, attributing blame for the attacks.
Rwanda vehemently denied the accusations, dismissing them as “ridiculous” and asserting the professionalism of its army. However, the Congolese government and Western nations have maintained allegations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group, linking the conflict to control over lucrative mines and mineral resources in the region.
The intensifying violence in eastern DRC has led to a mass exodus of civilians towards Goma, placing immense strain on humanitarian efforts and exacerbating the already dire situation in the conflict-ridden region. International organizations like Save The Children and Doctors Without Borders have been grappling with the escalating crisis, facing challenges in providing aid and medical assistance amidst rising insecurity.
In a joint news conference, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an end to Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebels, underscoring the urgency of resolving the conflict and preventing further loss of life. The bombings in the camps for displaced people underscore the urgent need to prioritize the protection of civilians and to halt the use of explosive weapons near populated areas.
As President Felix Tshisekedi rushes back home in response to the bombings, the situation in eastern DRC remains precarious, with ongoing clashes and tensions threatening the safety and security of vulnerable communities. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region, emphasizing the imperative of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity in order to foster peace and stability.