M23 rebels capture Bukavu, tightening control in eastern DRC

M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This marks the second major city captured by the rebels since late January, following Goma. The city, home to 1.3 million people, was abandoned by Congolese forces before the rebels entered. Residents fled, and looting occurred as the M23 established their presence. The border crossing to Rwanda has been closed, and most businesses remain shut. The M23 rebels are backed by Rwandan troops, raising international concerns about regional stability.