Chaos in Eastern Congo: Army Deserters Loot, Gunfire Erupts as M23 Rebels Advance
The Democratic Republic of Congo‘s (DRC) military is grappling with internal turmoil as deserters sow chaos in the eastern town of Lubero. These soldiers, fleeing clashes with the advancing Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, have resorted to gunfire and looting, exacerbating the region’s instability.
In response, the Congolese army issued a directive on February 19, 2025, mandating that all deserters return to their units within 12 hours. The military’s spokesperson for North Kivu province emphasized the need for discipline, urging soldiers to desist from theft and other unlawful activities. This call to order comes as the M23 insurgency intensifies, capturing significant territories in eastern DRC and igniting concerns of a broader conflict.
Eyewitnesses in Lubero recounted scenes of pandemonium, with rogue soldiers discharging firearms indiscriminately and plundering local markets and retail establishments. One resident, speaking under anonymity due to security fears, described the situation as “complete turmoil,” noting that gunshots echoed throughout the town as soldiers scattered in disarray.
The military’s retreat from strategic locations, including the recent withdrawal from Bukavu, has further strained its operational capabilities. The disorderly pullback from Bukavu, a key city in South Kivu province, not only signifies a tactical setback but also highlights the challenges faced by the Congolese armed forces in countering the well-coordinated M23 offensive.
The M23 rebellion, primarily composed of Tutsi fighters, has escalated its activities since late 2024, seizing major urban centers such as Goma and Bukavu. These advances have precipitated a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of civilians displaced and critical infrastructure compromised. The United Nations reports that the conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and has overwhelmed local healthcare facilities.
Amid the escalating conflict, the DRC’s finance ministry has established a solidarity fund to support the military’s efforts against the insurgency. This initiative aims to mobilize financial resources to bolster the army’s operational effectiveness and address logistical challenges exacerbated by the protracted conflict.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with calls for diplomatic interventions to de-escalate tensions. However, the complex interplay of regional politics and historical grievances poses significant obstacles to achieving a sustainable resolution to the crisis.
As the Congolese military strives to restore order within its ranks and repel the M23 insurgents, the civilian population bears the brunt of the ongoing hostilities. The need for comprehensive strategies that encompass military, political, and humanitarian dimensions is imperative to alleviate the suffering and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.