DRC: nearly 540 civilians executed and more than 1,450 people forcibly recruited by the M23

A United Nations report published on 2 October 2025 reveals that the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group is responsible for serious human rights violations in North and South Kivu provinces. Over the past three months, nearly 540 civilians have been summarily executed, including 325 in Rutshuru territory during anti-FDLR operations, including 52 women and 24 children in the Bwisha chiefdom.

At the same time, more than 1,450 people have been forcibly recruited into the M23 ranks and sent to training camps. Despite the ceasefire agreed under the Doha peace process, the rebels are continuing their offensives in Walikkale and Masisi, causing tensions to escalate.

In response, the Congolese air force has intensified its strikes against M23 positions, particularly in Buleusa, while the international community is calling for the protection of civilians and respect for humanitarian law.