The United Nations’ intervention force in the Democratic Republic of Congo has given residents in Goma 48 hours to disarm and anyone armed beyond that time will be considered a rebel.
"They will be considered an imminent threat of physical violence to civilians and [UN mission in DR Congo] Monusco will take all necessary measures to disarm them, including by the use of force in accordance with its mandate and rules of engagement," a statement by the UN mission in the DR Congo, Monusco, said.
The UN said at least 70,000 people had been displaced in the latest violence near