Rebels of the M23 group seized part of the regional capital of Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday, reports Radio Okapi.

The radio station reported local residents as saying the rebels had told them to go about their normal business.

Western news agencies reported that both parts of the city and its airport had been taken over by rebels.

An Agence-France Presse reporter said a column of rebel fighters entered the city from the main airport road.

Radio Okapi, which is sponsored by the United Nations, said city residents were upset with the Kinshasa government over the takeover.

"I did not think the M23 would come to take control of our city," said one.