The UN reports that over 100 female prisoners in Goma, DR Congo, were raped and burned alive during a jailbreak linked to the M23 rebel group. The mass escape escalated violence, leaving nearly 3,000 dead. Authorities fear a cholera outbreak as humanitarian conditions deteriorate amid ongoing conflict.
The United Nations has reported a harrowing incident in Goma, eastern DR Congo, where over 100 female prisoners were raped and subsequently burned alive during a mass jailbreak.
The attack took place last Monday when hundreds of inmates escaped from Munzenze prison amid escalating violence linked to the M23 rebel group. According to a confidential UN document, between 165 and 167 women were sexually assaulted by fellow prisoners before the facility was set ablaze, leading to mass casualties.
The jailbreak occurred as M23 fighters, allegedly backed by Rwanda, continued their offensive, capturing Goma, a city home to over a million residents. The takeover triggered widespread chaos, with bodies scattered in the streets and residential areas hit by missile strikes.
Amid the unrest, at least 2,900 people have reportedly been killed, with 2,000 bodies already buried and another 900 still in morgues. Although the rebels recently announced a ceasefire, fresh attacks were reported on Wednesday, including the capture of the mining town of Nyabibwe.
In response, Congolese authorities have mobilized civilian volunteers to defend the region, while Malawi announced plans to withdraw its peacekeeping forces following casualties among its troops. Meanwhile, humanitarian concerns are rising in Goma, where access to clean water has been cut off, increasing fears of a cholera outbreak.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has warned of deteriorating sanitary conditions, with cholera treatment centers already reaching capacity. Residents now face worsening health risks amid ongoing conflict.
