HRW Reports Civilian Atrocities in Eastern DRC Amid Ongoing Conflict

Human Rights Watch (HRW) released a report on September 28, detailing civilian atrocities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amid military confrontations involving Rwandan forces and the M23 rebel group, Jurist News revealed. The M23, a Tutsi-led group backed by Rwanda, has been accused of widespread violence, including indiscriminate attacks and sexual violence, since its resurgence in 2021.

As fighting intensifies near Sake, over half a million displaced individuals face increasing vulnerability. Notably, the Shabindu-Kashaka displacement site has suffered rocket strikes, resulting in civilian casualties, including 17 deaths on May 3. HRW highlights alarming conditions in Kanyaruchinya camp, where unlawful detentions and extortion by Wazalendo fighters occur.

HRW calls for thorough investigations into potential war crimes and urges comprehensive humanitarian assistance for affected civilians. The organization emphasizes the need for international oversight to prevent further abuses and uphold human rights standards.