DRC Soldiers Loot Lubero After Fleeing M23 Rebel Clashes

• Feb 21, 2025

Chaos erupted in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as rogue soldiers looted businesses and fired gunshots in Lubero town after fleeing intense battles with M23 rebels in nearby areas.

Army Deserters Cause Panic in Lubero

The Congolese army has been battling M23 fighters for the past 72 hours in southern Lubero territory. However, some soldiers abandoned their positions, causing disorder in the town, according to military spokesperson Sylvain Ekenge. On Thursday, the army issued a statement ordering the deserters to return to their posts within 12 hours and warned all soldiers against looting and misconduct.

Residents described scenes of panic as soldiers fired gunshots and ransacked shops selling mobile phones, clothes, and goods at the central market. “It’s complete turmoil in Lubero. Shots can be heard... The soldiers are running in all directions,” said one resident, who requested anonymity for safety reasons.

Later, Lubero's military administrator Alain Kiwewa assured that order had been restored and blamed the disturbance on a few undisciplined soldiers.

Army Struggles Against M23 Offensive

The fighting in Lubero adds to growing concerns about the Congolese army’s ability to contain M23 advances. The rebel group has taken control of large areas in eastern DRC, including two major cities, heightening fears of a wider war.

In a further setback, the army staged a disorderly retreat from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, after M23 fighters entered the city over the weekend. The withdrawal triggered clashes between Congolese forces and allied militias, who were unwilling to abandon their positions.

Regional and International Reactions

The conflict has drawn international attention, with the United States imposing sanctions on a Rwandan government minister and an M23 leader accused of fueling the violence. Rwanda has repeatedly denied allegations by Congo and the United Nations that it provides arms and troops to M23. Kigali insists its actions are defensive, aimed at neutralizing Hutu militias it accuses of collaborating with the Congolese army.

Meanwhile, the DRC government has launched a solidarity fund for the military, allowing citizens, businesses, and organizations to donate to the war effort. The fund reflects the financial burden of the three-year M23 insurgency, which has reignited long-standing conflicts over power, ethnicity, and mineral resources in the region.