Congo rebels declare ceasefire around Goma

Congolese rebels tonight called a ceasefire around Goma and said they were on the outskirts of the city while the army retreated and residents fled.

The rebels said in a statement that they were just outside the city, where reporters heard crackling gunfire and occasional booms from heavy artillery, apparently from retreating Congolese troops.

A UN spokesman welcomed the announcement but said it was not yet clear if the “simple declaration” was being followed by action.

Spokesman Madnodje Mounoubai confirmed that Goma was generally in a state of panic and said the rebels were not in the city.

He said peacekeepers were at the airport and at in other strategic points.