M23 rebels have captured Minova, an important supply route to Goma, escalating tensions in eastern Congo. The South Kivu provincial governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi, confirmed that Minova and other key towns, including Lumbishi and Numbi, are now under rebel control. Likewise, the mining hub of Masisi in North Kivu was seized earlier this month. Although the Congolese military noted rebel "breakthroughs," they have not confirmed the occupation.
The March 23 Movement, largely comprising ethnic Tutsis, broke away from the Congolese army over a decade ago and gained international attention in 2012 by briefly taking Goma. M23 is just one of approximately 100 militant factions embroiled in eastern Congo's enduring conflict over its vast mineral wealth. The decades-long strife has resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian crisis with over 7 million displaced people.
Neighboring Rwanda stands accused by Congo, the US, and UN experts of providing support to M23, allegations that Rwanda denies. The strategic significance of Minova cannot be understated, as it is a key logistics point on Lake Kivu and essential for agricultural transit to Goma. Amid these developments, the United Nations reports that more than 237,000 people have been displaced in the first quarter of this year alone, accentuating the humanitarian urgency. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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