The U.N. has warned of escalating violence in eastern DRC due to M23 rebels, with alarming reports of summary executions and widespread rapes. The humanitarian crisis intensifies as civilians suffer from forced displacement and heightened risks of violence, particularly in areas affected by M23’s advances.
The United Nations has expressed grave concern over escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where the M23 armed group has increased its territorial control, notably capturing Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. Reports indicate alarming instances of summary executions and widespread sexual violence linked to the ongoing conflict, particularly as M23 advances towards Bukavu in South Kivu province.
U.N. rights office spokesman, Jeremy Laurence, revealed that recent attacks had struck sites housing internally displaced persons, resulting in civilian casualties. Furthermore, evidence has surfaced suggesting that at least 12 individuals were executed by M23 between January 26 and 28. In territories held by M23, civilians have suffered forced labor and conscription, as well as the occupation of vital facilities such as schools and hospitals.
The situation underscores a pattern of sexual violence within the conflict, with reports concerning 52 women allegedly raped by Congolese troops in South Kivu, including incidents of gang rape. Additionally, it was reported that over 165 women were violated by male inmates following the escape of more than 4,000 prisoners from Goma’s Muzenze prison during M23’s assault on January 27.
Laurence emphasized that conflict-related sexual violence has been a persistent issue in eastern Congo’s armed conflicts, and the recent escalation threatens to exacerbate these violations. He stressed the critical need for investigations and calls for accountability for those responsible for these atrocities. Furthermore, he noted the danger posed by the increasing availability of weapons in Goma, contributing to an environment of heightened violence.
Ruth Maclean, West Africa bureau chief for the New York Times, highlighted the dire situation in Goma, where displaced individuals from surrounding areas are increasingly vulnerable as they seek refuge from ongoing hostilities, often having to sleep outdoors. The United Nations and various Western nations have accused Rwanda of supporting M23, which is perceived as an attempt to exploit eastern Congo’s extensive mineral resources, thus aggravating an already complex regional crisis.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has struggled with longstanding conflict, particularly in its eastern regions which are rich in minerals. Various armed groups, including the M23, have contributed to ongoing violence that has displaced countless civilians and resulted in numerous human rights violations. The situation has been complicated by external influences, particularly accusations against Rwanda for backing the M23 rebels in pursuit of mineral resources, leading to escalating territorial disputes and humanitarian crises in the area.
The significant increase in violence from the M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has raised alarms at the United Nations due to reports of summary executions and rampant sexual violence. The plight of internally displaced individuals continues to worsen amid ongoing military actions, indicating an urgent need for accountability and peace efforts in a region plagued by decades of conflicts and human rights abuses.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
