Nine United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) soldiers were injured in clashes on the outskirts of Goma. Additionally, the M23 militia has captured the areas of Kibati and Kilimanyoka, which are in close proximity to Goma, the capital of North Kivu Province.
MONUSCO leadership confirmed that their soldiers sustained injuries in battle and were subsequently transported to hospitals in Goma for medical attention. Their official statement reported that five soldiers were injured during the fighting on Friday, while the remaining four were wounded in the Sake outskirts during clashes that occurred on Thursday.
MONUSCO forces also announced that they continue to support the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) in defending the city of Goma from being captured by M23. They stated that they are protecting Goma both day and night.
Furthermore, MONUSCO revealed that they are utilizing warplanes and deploying heavy artillery to respond to the Sake area and other regions under threat. The M23 militia recently warned MONUSCO and the South Kivu government forces (SAMIDRC) that any interference in the fighting would result in retaliation.
In a statement released by the M23 group, they declared: “All signs indicate that MONUSCO and SAMIDRC are preparing to attack us, which is why we are defending ourselves.”
The M23 militia also announced their intention to capture the city of Goma. Fighters from this group have continued to seize numerous areas, and this morning, they took control of the Kilimanyoka and Kibati sectors. Both areas are strategically located at the entrance to Goma from other parts of the Nyiragongo Territory.
Meanwhile, additional clashes have erupted in Mugunga, a district on the outskirts of Goma. These confrontations highlight the escalating violence in the region.
Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated that this conflict may continue and potentially spread throughout the entire Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
