Reports circulating about the M23 rebel group disarming MONUSCO peacekeepers in Goma have been proven false, according to an internal source from the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
The incident, which took place at 10:42 a.m. at the BDGL roundabout in Goma, was misinterpreted and misrepresented by certain sources. Here’s what actually happened, according to MONUSCO:
During a water supply escort mission, a civilian SUV blocked the progress of a MONUSCO vehicle. The owner of the civilian vehicle, later identified as a leader of the M23 armed group, initially stopped the convoy to inspect his car for possible damage. Upon confirming that there was no damage, he proceeded to contact his patrol to inquire about the nature of MONUSCO’s escort mission.
According to our correspondent in Goma, it has been established that following a brief discussion with the escort commander, the M23 leader ordered his subordinates to allow the convoy to continue.
It was purely a road traffic incident like any others happening on the streets anywhere.
“No peacekeepers were injured and no damage was reported,” confirmed the MONUSCO source, adding that the information has not been contradicted by the rebels.
This clarification discredits earlier reports suggesting that M23 had forcibly disarmed MONUSCO personnel. The event, in reality, was a minor traffic incident that escalated into an unnecessary rumor.
The situation in eastern DRC remains tense, with ongoing conflict and highly charged narratives shaping public perception. However, fact-checking remains essential in preventing the spread of misinformation in an already volatile environment.