DR Congo Opens Probe into Deadly Drone Blasts in Goma

French UNICEF staff member killed as authorities investigate explosions in rebel-held city. The Democratic Republic of Congo has launched an investigation into a series of drone-related explosions in the eastern city of Goma that killed a French UNICEF employee and at least two other people. The victim, Karine Buisset , died when an explosion struck a residential house on Wednesday morning in an area frequently inhabited by aid workers and expatriates , according to reports and sources linked to the M23 rebel group . The United Nations condemned the attack. In a statement, Congo’s Communication and Media Ministry said authorities were investigating the explosions, which caused casualties and significant material damage . Officials said the exact circumstances of the blasts and their origin remain unclear , adding that investigators are working to “shed full light on the facts.” The attack occurred in territory largely controlled by the M23 rebels , who have seized large parts of eastern Congo, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu , since 2025. The Congolese government, the United Nations , and several Western countries accuse Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, allegations that Kigali denies . M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka claimed the attack was carried out by the Kinshasa government , a claim rejected by Congolese authorities. Kinshasa reaffirmed its commitment to international humanitarian law , stressing the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian personnel, and pledged to work with the United Nations and international partners to clarify the circumstances of the attack. Source: Newstimehub DRCConflict GomaAttack M23Rebels HumanitarianSecurity EastAfricaConflict