According to a statement released on February 16, the M23 rebel movement has claimed control over Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

As cited by media reports, the governor confirmed the presence of M23 forces in the city, stating that government troops had withdrawn to prevent urban combat.

As reported by Sputnik Africa, the ongoing conflict has led to a large-scale displacement, with at least 10,000 people fleeing South Kivu for neighboring Burundi, according to Radio Okapi.