Mortar Attack Kills Tanzanian Soldiers in Eastern DR Congo Missile Attack
A devastating mortar attack in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed the lives of three Tanzanian soldiers, with three others sustaining injuries.
The assault, described as "hostile" missile fire by the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), targeted a military force from southern Africa stationed near Sake.
The attack occurred on Saturday at a base housing Tanzanian troops, adding to the escalating violence in the region.
Tanzanian soldiers killed in DR Congo missile attack https://t.co/ZeUqtjmWNY
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) April 8, 2024
Source: Twitter/BBCWorld
Regional Response to Escalating Insecurity
Last year, the Congolese government sought assistance from a regional force from southern Africa to address the mounting insecurity fueled by various rebel groups vying for control over eastern DR Congo's rich mineral resources and territory.
Among these groups is the notorious M23, which has faced allegations of receiving support from Rwanda. However, Rwanda denies these accusations, while accusing the Congolese army of collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Renewed Threat from M23 Rebels
Despite a period of relative calm, the M23 rebel group experienced a resurgence in 2021, gaining control over significant areas in North Kivu province.
This resurgence has led to thousands of people fleeing the region, seeking refuge in the city of Goma.
Concerns persist about the potential capture of Goma by the M23, as it previously did in 2012, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the area.
International Response and Pressure on DR Congo Government
The escalating violence prompted the government of DR Congo to issue an order for the United Nations peacekeeping mission to depart by the end of 2024, facing increased pressure to address the security challenges internally.
In response to the threat posed by the M23 rebels, Sadc deployed 2,900 soldiers to North Kivu province in December, aiming to stabilize the region and protect civilian populations.
Tragic Losses and Continuing Threats
Tragically, this recent mortar attack claimed the lives of three Tanzanian soldiers, adding to the toll of casualties among the regional forces.
Sadc also reported the death of a soldier from South Africa, who passed away in hospital while receiving treatment for health issues.
This incident follows the deaths of two South African soldiers in February due to another mortar attack in North Kivu province.
The source of the assault and responsibility for targeting the soldiers remain undisclosed, intensifying concerns about the ongoing security threats in eastern DR Congo.
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