Rebels attack female prison in Goma leading to deaths of hundreds of women

Rwandan-backed rebels attacked a female prison in Goma, Congo, leading to the rape and murder of hundreds of women. The incident occurred during a prison break, where male inmates overwhelmed guards and set the facility on fire on January 27. Reports indicate at least 141 women and 28 children were killed in the violence. The prison, which housed around 4,400 inmates, was already overcrowded before the attack. The UN has highlighted the use of sexual violence as a weapon in the ongoing conflict. In a surprising turn, the M23 rebel group announced a ceasefire that began on February 3, a week after the attack. The city of Goma is now fully under M23 control, with the prison left in ruins.