This footage shows the Congolese military retreating from a recent engagement with M23 forces. Occasional gunfire from the pursuing M23 and retreating Congolese can be heard, and several combat casualties and KIA are shown being carried and cared for while on the run. Viewer discretion is advised.

M23 (named for the “March 23 Movement") is a rebel militia which split from the Congolese military in 2012. Being primarily Tutsi, it is reported that Rwanda is financing and supporting M23 forces, sponsoring and encouraging them to attack Hutu people in Congo. This appears to be the latest manifestation of the inter-tribal violence that has been characteristic of the region, most commonly associated with the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. M23 has been making significant territorial gains in Congo, and although the United Nations has denounced M23’s Rwandan-backed activities, the UN began withdrawing its forces from the region as of early March, 2024. This will leave the M23 conflict entirely in the hands of the DRC and its remaining allies, which include South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania. The UN’s efficacy in Africa has long been criticized, but it remains to be foreseen how the Democratic Republic of Congo will fare without UN support.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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