UN confirms 2,900 dead as M23 rebels escalate attacks in Congo

At least 2,900 people have been killed following attacks by the M23 (23 March Movement) rebel group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with 2,000 bodies buried and another 900 still in the city's morgues, according to the United Nations.

On February 3, hundreds of prisoners escaped from Munzenze prison after M23 fighters launched an assault to seize control of the city, Caliber.Az reports, citing Western media.

During the jailbreak, between 165 and 167 women were reportedly assaulted by male inmates, according to an internal UN document.

Later in the week, the rebels announced a ceasefire on humanitarian grounds. However, despite this declaration, M23 launched a new offensive on February 5, reportedly capturing the mining town of Nyabibwe. Nyabibwe, which lies about 100 km (60 miles) from Bukavu—eastern DRC’s second-largest city—is now believed to be the target of the rebels’ latest advance.

In response, Congolese authorities have mobilized hundreds of civilian volunteers to defend Bukavu amid escalating hostilities.

Meanwhile, Malawi has announced preparations for the withdrawal of its peacekeeping forces from the country. This decision follows the killing of three Malawian soldiers in the ongoing clashes around Goma. The Malawian troops were part of a southern African intervention force led by South Africa. Despite the loss of 14 South African soldiers, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining South Africa's military presence in the region.

Back in Goma, where residents are adjusting to life under M23 control, concerns are growing over a potential cholera outbreak due to deteriorating sanitation conditions and limited access to clean water.

By Khagan Isayev