Surging violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has ignited fears of large-scale instability in one of Africa's most conflict-ridden countries.

On January 27, the M23 rebel group, backed by soldiers from neighboring Rwanda, seized control of Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC. Home to around 1 million people, Goma plays an essential role in the country's economy and administration.

Further adding to the chaos was a massive jailbreak at the city's main prison that occurred on Monday. It resulted in over 4,000 inmates escaping onto the streets and residents locking themselves indoors for safety.

Protestors also attacked the Belgian, Dutch, Kenyan, Ugandan and US embassies, demanding the International community pressure Rwanda over its alleged involvement.

DW explores the conflict's complexities, including Rwanda's controversial role in the DRC and the potential for broader regional unrest.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has a wealth of natural resources, including metals and minerals such as gold, tin and coltan, essential for manufacturing mobile phones and batteries for electric vehicles.

The resources have sparked a cycle of corruption and bloodshed as armed groups, local militias and foreign actors vie for control of the territory. The DRC has been rocked by........

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