Armed men have attacked a prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern city of Beni.

A rebel group believed to be backed by Rwanda advanced to within two miles of Goma, a crucial provincial capital in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, marking the first time that rebels have come this close since 2008.

UN attack helicopters targeted M23 rebels in eastern Congo after fighting resumed following a months long lull in violence, a local official said.

The suspected leader of an extremist Hutu militia was in custody today after being arrested in eastern Congo following years on the run.

THE leader of the Congo’s eastern province has denied army forces are using child soldiers, instead claiming rebels are arming youngsters.