Warrior's Primus Wanga delivers his latest update from the heart of Goma, North Kivu Province, Eastern DR Congo:
The Congolese army claimed on Monday they had killed 120 rebels in a fierce gun battle with M23 approximately 7 kms from Goma town. 12 Congolese troop were also killed. Heavy fighting resumed yesterday following the arrival from Rwanda of more than 100 armed soldiers disguised as women, according to residents.
Both sides blame each other for the renewed violence. By Monday afternoon heavy fire appeared to be coming from the Congolese side reinforced by tanks, and yesterday morning they launched an attack on Kibati, an M23 controlled village 10 KMs from Goma.
Peace talks between government and M23 stalled again last week when head of M23 delegation Rene Abandi complained that his opposite number had left the negotiations.
The UN Mission in Congo (MONUSCO) said it is ready to use lethal force to protect civilians and 'any attempt by M23 to advance towards Goma will be considered a direct threat to civilians.'
UN armoured vehicles passing Warrior's Goma office
The UN Intervention Brigade has deployed over 100 armoured vehicles.
The civilian and business communities appear to be acclimatizing to the frequent clashes. On Monday banks opened until 11 am and business traded until 2 pm, and yesterday it was business as usual even though artillery and gunfire could be heard on the outskirts of town. The heavy presence of the UN Intervention Brigade on the streets has given some comfort to Goma residents.
