Eastern DRC witnessed a surge in violence with rebel attacks claiming at least 14 lives, including 2 South African soldiers deployed to quell the unrest. 12 civilians were killed and 16 kidnapped by CODECO rebels at a gold mine, 2 other South African soldiers died in a mortar attack, marking the first fatalities since their deployment. This spike in violence comes amidst ongoing clashes between M23 rebels and Congolese forces, with accusations of Rwandan support for M23 further fueling tensions. CODECO, another rebel group, operates separately, targeting resource-rich areas. To address the crisis, a regional force led by South Africa with 2,900 troops is being deployed. However, Wednesday’s attack raises concerns about their safety and effectiveness. The escalating conflict has displaced over a million people, adding to the existing humanitarian crisis. Aid organizations warn that further violence, particularly near Goma, could cripple the entire aid system in the region, leaving millions vulnerable.
