The incident followed a claim by M23 rebels, who have been battling Congolese forces, that they captured Kavumu airport last Friday.

The World Food Program (WFP) condemned the weekend looting of its warehouses in Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu, following growing concerns over the security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The WFP stated that the looted food supplies were intended to offer life-saving support to vulnerable families, who are now facing an escalating humanitarian crisis. The UN agency highlighted that as violence continues to spread, access to food becomes increasingly difficult. However, it assured that it stands ready to resume providing essential food aid to those most in need as soon as the situation is safe.

The WFP also called on all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers.

The looting occurred amid an ongoing battle between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. Last Friday, the rebels claimed to have captured Kavumu airport, located 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Bukavu. Following this, they also entered Bukavu. The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo announced on Sunday that Rwandan forces and their allies had entered the city of Bukavu, urging residents to stay vigilant. Reports from Saturday indicated that some Bukavu residents were fleeing to neighboring Rwanda for safety.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with more than 3,000 people killed, 2,880 injured, and over 500,000 displaced since January 26. This adds to the 6.4 million people who had already been displaced by ongoing violence, according to the UN. The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels and sending troops to eastern Congo at the onset of the latest offensive, a claim that Rwanda has denied repeatedly.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an end to the deadlock and stressed the importance of initiating dialogue to resolve the crisis.