Following the capture of Bukavu by the M23 Movement considered the capital of South Kivu province government forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have reportedly been targeting Banyamulenge and Tutsi communities in the region.
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Late last evening, M23 successfully seized control of Bukavu, prompting FARDC troops to retreat. Reports indicate that these forces fled to Uvira and other territories within Walungu that remain outside M23’s control, including Nyangezi, Kamanyola, and surrounding areas.
Eyewitness accounts from residents in these regions claim that FARDC soldiers and their affiliates have been involved in violent acts against Banyamulenge civilians. Allegations include killings, property destruction, and looting, particularly in Nyangezi and Kamanyola. Specific incidents of vandalism have been reported, with homes belonging to individuals such as Bigina Patrick and Rukumbuzi wa Basita among those destroyed.
In addition to the destruction of property, reports suggest that soldiers are forcibly entering homes, extorting money, and stealing valuables. Disturbingly, there have also been multiple accounts of women being subjected to sexual violence.
In Kamanyola, Banyamulenge residents have been left isolated as other ethnic groups in the area have fled, fearing further violence. These attacks have triggered widespread displacement, with the once-populated city of Bukavu now largely abandoned as people escape the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, in Uvira, FARDC soldiers reportedly shot and killed a Banyamulenge man working for the Red Cross, allegedly due to his Tutsi ethnicity.
Amid the escalating violence, Banyamulenge communities in South Kivu are calling for urgent intervention and justice, asserting that they are being targeted solely because of their ethnic identity.
