Several explosions hit Independence Square in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), on Thursday. The blasts occurred shortly after a political rally backing the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, local sources reported.
The explosions went off soon after Corneille Nangaa spoke at the rally. Nangaa is the leader of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), a politico-military group allied with M23. The event aimed to gather political support for M23, a rebel group active in eastern DRC.
Witnesses reported multiple casualties, though the exact number of dead and injured remains unclear. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, and security forces sealed off the area. Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosions, but no group has claimed responsibility yet.
M23 rebels have seized key cities and towns in eastern DRC. Their advances include capturing Goma and Bukavu, the capitals of North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The renewed attacks have increased tensions and raised fears of more violence and displacement.
Local officials have urged residents to stay alert as investigations continue.