Bukavu, a city under the control of M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is experiencing a surge in violence, with nightly killings instilling widespread fear among residents. The withdrawal of Congolese troops has left behind accessible weapons that are being used by criminals, further deteriorating the security situation. The lack of functioning courts and police forces has forced residents to take matters into their own hands and resort to self-defense measures. Despite the M23’s efforts to maintain control, they are facing resistance from both residents and pro-Kinshasa militias, creating a volatile environment for the city’s inhabitants. The ongoing conflict has left residents exhausted and trapped in the middle of the power struggle between the M23 rebels and opposing factions. The situation in Bukavu highlights the urgent need for a sustainable solution to bring peace and stability to the region, as the cycle of violence continues to escalate.