Thousands in DR Congo displaced after clashes

Thousands of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been displaced after they fled ongoing clashes between the Congolese army and M23 fighters this week.

A fresh attack carried out by the "March 23 Movement", targeted a Congolese army position in the territory of Rutshuru, just north of the city of Goma. Since the beginning of this week, inhabitants from six villages in the country's east – including, Bukima, Nyesisi, and Ruhanga – have fled the violence.

At least 2,000 people are now living in improvised shelters, in churches, schools or with host families. Since November, the movement has been accused of being behind several attacks against the army. The attack took place in the vicinity of Virunga National Park, a UNESCO heritage site, renowned for its large gorilla population.