In a deeply troubling development, the United Nations reported that on February 28, 2025, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group abducted at least 130 patients from two hospitals in Goma, a major city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This incident underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region, already beleaguered by ongoing conflict and instability.
In This Article:
The Abductions: A Grim Account
According to UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, M23 fighters conducted coordinated raids on CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital during the night of February 28. They forcibly took 116 patients from CBCA and 15 from Heal Africa, suspecting them of being soldiers of the Congolese army or members of the pro-government Wazalendo militia. Shamdasani expressed deep distress over these actions, stating that it is unacceptable for M23 to remove patients from hospital beds and detain them in undisclosed locations. She called for their immediate release.
M23’s Resurgence and Territorial Gains
The M23 rebel group, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, has seen a resurgence since late 2024. In a rapid three-week offensive earlier this year, they seized control of Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, and subsequently captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in the region. These strategic victories have granted M23 access to areas rich in minerals such as gold and coltan, essential components in consumer electronics like laptops and smartphones.
Humanitarian Toll and International Response
The conflict has exacted a heavy humanitarian toll. Since January 2025, approximately 7,000 people have been killed in eastern Congo, and nearly half a million have been displaced after 90 displacement camps were destroyed in the fighting. The destruction of these camps has left countless individuals without shelter, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.
International efforts to address the crisis have included sanctions and peace negotiations. However, these measures have thus far failed to halt the advance of M23 rebels. The United States and the United Kingdom have imposed sanctions on Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the rebel group—a claim Rwanda denies. The conflict traces its roots to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, with lingering ethnic tensions and disputes over Congo’s vast mineral wealth fueling the ongoing violence.
Impact on Healthcare and Civilians
The abduction of hospital patients highlights the precarious situation for healthcare facilities and civilians in the conflict zone. Hospitals in cities like Bukavu have been overwhelmed by casualties resulting from chaotic clashes and withdrawals. Patients have recounted harrowing experiences of sustaining injuries amid the disorganized retreat of Congolese forces before the M23 rebels’ advance. The violence has led to widespread shooting and looting, further burdening medical facilities already stretched thin.
Regional Tensions and Accusations
The conflict has heightened regional tensions, particularly between the DRC and Rwanda. The DRC government has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels as a means to seize mineral-rich territories—a claim Rwanda denies, asserting that it is defending itself against ethnic Hutu-led militias operating in Congo. These militias are accused of harboring intentions to attack Tutsis and destabilize Rwanda.
The situation has been further complicated by incidents such as explosions during a rally in Bukavu, resulting in 13 deaths and numerous injuries. Both the DRC government and M23 rebels have traded blame over the deadly blasts, each accusing the other of targeting civilians and escalating the violence.
International Community’s Stance
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo. The United Nations has condemned the abductions and called for the immediate release of the detained patients. Despite these condemnations, effective intervention has been limited, and the conflict continues to destabilize the region.
The abduction of 130 hospital patients by M23 rebels in Goma is a stark reminder of the escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo. The resurgence of M23, territorial gains, and the ensuing violence have resulted in significant loss of life, displacement, and regional instability. The international community faces the urgent task of addressing the root causes of the conflict, providing humanitarian assistance, and facilitating a sustainable resolution to restore peace and stability in the region.
By – Jyothi
