M23 rebels have kidnapped at least 130 sick and wounded patients from two hospitals in Goma, escalating tensions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the United Nations reported on Monday.
The attacks took place on February 28 at CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital. According to UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, the rebels took 116 and 15 patients, respectively. Many of those abducted were suspected to be Congolese soldiers or members of Wazalendo, a local pro-government militia.
“It is deeply alarming that M23 is forcibly removing patients from hospital beds in coordinated raids and detaining them in undisclosed locations,” Shamdasani said. She called for the immediate release of the hostages.
M23 Gains Ground in Mineral-Rich Regions
M23 spokespersons Willy Ngoma and Lawrence Kanyuka Kingston have not responded to requests for comment.
The rebel group entered Goma in late January and has since expanded its control in eastern Congo. Their advance gives them access to valuable mineral-rich areas. This latest offensive, which began in December 2023, is one of the most severe escalations in the region’s conflict. The violence is linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the long-standing battle over Congo’s vast mineral wealth.
Rwanda’s Alleged Role and Rising Casualties
The DRC government, UN experts, and Western nations accuse Rwanda of backing M23. Kigali denies the claims, stating it is protecting itself from Hutu-led militias based in Congo. These groups, Rwanda argues, threaten Tutsis and national security.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll continues to grow. Since January 2024, over 8,500 people have died, and nearly 500,000 people have been displaced. The destruction of 90 displacement camps has left thousands without shelter, food, or medical aid.
Peace Efforts Fail as M23 Holds Key Cities
Despite international sanctions, ICC investigations, and African-led peace talks, efforts to stop M23’s advance have failed. The rebels now control Goma and Bukavu, two of eastern Congo’s most important cities.
With peace negotiations stalled, pressure is mounting on regional and global leaders to intervene. Civilians remain the most affected as violence continues to spread.