A horrific incident has come to light following a recent jailbreak in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where over 100 female prisoners were reportedly raped and then burned alive.
This atrocity occurred during a chaotic escape from Munzenze prison last Monday, amidst the advance of the M23 rebel group.
UN Report Details Goma Prison Atrocity
An internal UN document, seen by the BBC, states that between 165 and 167 women were sexually assaulted by male inmates during the prison break. The report further alleges that most of these women were subsequently killed when the inmates set fire to the prison. The BBC has not yet been able to independently verify these disturbing reports.
The M23 Offensive and Goma’s Descent into Chaos
The city of Goma, with a population exceeding one million, fell under the control of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels following a swift offensive through eastern DRC. The city was plunged into chaos, with reports of bodies littering the streets and missiles striking residential areas. Footage from the prison break depicts people fleeing the burning building amidst heavy gunfire. A separate video shows individuals believed to be escaped prisoners moving through Goma’s streets.
Casualties and Conflict in Eastern DR Congo
The Congolese government has reported that over 2,000 people were killed in the clashes between the M23 rebels and Congolese forces and their allies. The UN, however, reports a lower death toll of at least 900, with nearly 3,000 injured. The discrepancy in these figures remains unclear.
Ceasefire and Renewed Offensive
Earlier this week, the M23 rebels announced a ceasefire, citing humanitarian concerns. However, this ceasefire proved short-lived, as the rebels launched a new offensive on Wednesday, reportedly capturing the town of Nyabibwe, located approximately 100 km (60 miles) from Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC and the rebels’ reported target. In response, Congolese authorities have mobilized civilian volunteers to defend Bukavu.
Humanitarian Crisis and Cholera Threat in Goma
Back in Goma, residents are struggling to adapt to life under M23 control. A looming threat of a cholera outbreak is a major concern. Stephan Goetghbuer, a regional lead from Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), highlighted the critical situation, noting that access to water has been cut off for days, corpses remain in the streets, and waterborne diseases like cholera pose a significant risk.
He also added that some cholera treatment centers are already at capacity and have been expanded.
