The M23 rebel group seized control of Bukavu, the second-largest city in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern region, on Saturday, Reuters reported.
Residents sought shelter in their homes as sporadic gunfire and widespread looting, including at a World Food Programme depot, erupted in the city.
While reports conflicted about whether the Rwanda-backed rebels had reached Bukavu, it was confirmed that M23 had taken over Kavumu airport, located north of the city.
The United Nations and European Union raised alarms about the escalating conflict, calling for an immediate ceasefire.