Local residents have shared videos of M23 fighters patrolling the streets with some seen cheering them on. Blaise a Congolese political analyst mentioned that the rebels have been welcomed by the locals but he noted that the reasons for this support may be mixed with both fear and genuine approval. He also pointed out that the ongoing conflict has shifted from being purely political to having more tribal dimensions.

The M23 launched an offensive to capture Goma weeks ago gaining control over areas close to the Rwandan border. Rwanda is widely believed to support the M23 group although it denies any involvement. The Congolese army and its allied militias have reportedly fled the city and some soldiers in both military and civilian attire have been seen surrendering their weapons.

Human Rights Watch has expressed grave concern for the civilians in Goma many of whom fled to the city to escape the violence from various armed groups including M23. The organization has documented numerous atrocities committed by the M23 including executions rape arbitrary detentions and extortion with reports of looting in Goma as well.

M23 claims it is fighting to protect local communities from abuses by the Congolese army and other militias. United Nations Secretary General António Guterres has called for an end to hostilities and for M23 to withdraw from the territories it has occupied.

However the M23 has made it clear that they will not leave the city easily as they claim they are protecting their families and communities. They are determined to maintain their presence in Goma and other key areas in the region.