Summary
Congolese authorities reported finding mass graves with 171 bodies in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in areas recently vacated by the M23 rebel group. These discoveries come amid ongoing fighting in the region, despite a peace deal mediated by the United States. The M23 group, active in conflicts with the DRC government for years, is implicated in these deaths.
Key Facts
- Authorities found two mass graves with 171 bodies near the city of Uvira in eastern DRC.
- The M23 rebel group moved out of the area where the graves were found.
- Congolese officials and a regional civil society group suspect M23 of the killings.
- The victims were believed to be targeted for suspected ties to the DRC army or a pro-government group.
- The M23 group and DRC military have both faced accusations of human rights abuses.
- The M23 has been in conflict with the DRC government since 2012, with escalations in recent years.
- In recent offensives, M23 gained control of major cities, leading to significant casualties and displacements.
- Despite peace negotiations, including US-mediated talks, fighting continues.
