As the M23 rebel group continues operations to restore peace and security in the city of Goma, they have launched sweeping crackdowns that have led to the arrest of several individuals found in possession of illegal weapons.
These operations began following the takeover of Goma by the M23 rebels in January this year, aimed at weakening the FARDC, FDLR, and Wazalendo fighters who refused to surrender and instead went into hiding among civilians with their weapons, threatening public order.
In the Lac Vert area, a plastic bag was discovered on the Lushagala road containing a grenade, a large quantity of Kalashnikov ammunition, and two fully loaded magazines, according to local authorities. Residents immediately alerted the M23 security forces, who confiscated the items.
On May 13, in the neighborhoods of Ngangi 2 and Ngangi 3, about 100 people were arrested, suspected of being fighters or lacking identification documents. They were taken to Don Bosco football field in Nyiragongo district, where their identities were verified. Those found innocent were released, while others were handed over for further investigation.
In Kyeshero, near the Centre Chrétien La Grâce church, two more fully loaded magazines were recovered. In Ndosho, a man dressed in military uniform—suspected to be a FARDC soldier—was also arrested and handed over to M23 authorities for identification.
These actions follow a similar sweep on May 10 in Ndosho, Kyeshero, and Himbi, where several suspected FARDC, FDLR, and Wazalendo fighters hiding among civilians were apprehended.
Security patrols remain active across Goma, particularly in Buhene, Don Bosco, Virunga, Katoyi, Kilijiwe, and Office 1. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious individuals threatening public peace.
Despite these efforts, many residents still express fear for their safety and are calling for stronger and lasting measures to restore full peace in Goma and its surrounding areas.
