Uvira Recaptured by Congolese Forces Following M23 Withdrawal. City, DR Congo — The Congolese army has announced the full recapture of the South Kivu city of Uvira, following the withdrawal of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.
According to government sources, pro — Kinshasa Wazalendo forces entered southern districts of Uvira on Sunday, followed by Congolese special forces later that day.
The rebels, who had seized Uvira in early December, announced their withdrawal on Thursday, claiming they were placing the city under the responsibility of the international community.
However, local sources reported that M23 police and military personnel remained in the city despite the announced withdrawal.
The arrival of the Congolese forces was met with cheers from residents, although it was also accompanied by reports of looting in shops and homes.
Regional officials confirmed that the rebels had positioned themselves in the hills above Uvira, “to point their weapons at the city, “as indicated in a message circulated to the media.
The Congolese army’s recapture of Uvira comes after months of tensions in the region.
The rebels had previously announced their withdrawal in response to a US request, but residents expressed skepticism about the extent of their departure.
The situation in Uvira remains tense, with the government stating that the rebels’presence in the surrounding hills poses a potential threat. Officials have not yet commented on the possibility of further military action against the rebels. Further details are expected as the situation in Uvira develops.
The government confirmed the recapture of the city but did not provide further details about the status of the rebels or the security situation in the area.
