Chaos erupted in Goma on Monday morning when a massive jailbreak occurred at a prison housing nearly 3,000 inmates. This followed the entry of fighters from the M23 rebel group into the besieged eastern city.
The prison was reportedly set ablaze during the breakout, leaving it completely destroyed. A security source confirmed that the incident resulted in casualties, but specific details on the number of deaths remain unclear. Witnesses described scenes of fleeing prisoners filling the streets surrounding the prison, intensifying fears of instability as the city grapples with growing insecurity.
Goma, a critical regional hub in eastern Congo, has faced repeated assaults by the M23 group, whose resurgence has displaced thousands and plunged the area into turmoil.
Regional Leaders to Hold Emergency Summit
The East African Community (EAC) has announced an emergency summit to address the deteriorating situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kenyan President William Ruto, who chairs the regional bloc, confirmed on Sunday that the meeting would be convened within 48 hours to explore strategies for ending the escalating conflict.
Ruto disclosed that he held discussions with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, both of whom have pledged their participation. Speaking on behalf of the bloc, Ruto highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Goma, citing intensified fighting, displacement, and the closure of the city’s airspace.
“The region cannot stand by as the crisis deepens,” Ruto said in a statement. “We are committed to finding solutions that restore peace and stability for the affected communities.”
Border Closure Raises Concerns
Adding to the tension, the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo near Goma was closed on Monday. Witnesses reported that cross-border movement had been suspended, with only a limited number of UN personnel and their families allowed to evacuate.
An aid worker stationed at the crossing described the situation as dire, with civilians being turned away. The closure is expected to further strain livelihoods in the region, where border trade plays a vital role in sustaining local communities.
As the crisis unfolds, the focus shifts to the upcoming EAC summit, which is seen as a crucial step in addressing the unrest and alleviating the suffering of affected populations.