The capture of Goma by Congolese rebels of the March 23 Movement (M23) and Rwandan forces began in Sake on January 23, 25 kilometers west of the provincial capital. A security source explained that Rwandan special forces had swooped down on this strategic town, a crossroads between the North and South Kivus. Four days later, other fighters entered the provincial capital from the north, precipitating its fall.

Built in a small valley, Sake backs onto a string of green peaks. They have been held for over a year by the rebels of the March 23 Movement (M23) and Rwandan forces. They overlook the city, under cover: It's a gunner's dream. When the offensive was launched, and the mortar shells fell, the defense force – wazalendo militiamen, Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and Romanian contract workers from Congo Protection – withdrew from this city already deserted by its inhabitants since a previous offensive, just over a year ago.

Twelve days later, the positioning of M23 military personnel in and around the town confirmed its importance. Sake is under control. "Here, it's the military who rule," said Ismaël, a resident we met in the main street, when we asked to meet a local civilian authority.

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