Amnesty Condemns Violence by Armed Groups in Eastern Congo

(MENAFN) Amnesty International released a report on Wednesday denouncing severe human rights violations carried out by opposing forces in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The watchdog documented appalling acts, such as "gang rapes," extrajudicial killings, and kidnappings, committed by the combatants involved in the ongoing conflict.

According to the organization’s most recent inquiry, both the M23 insurgents and the Wazalendo, a militia group aligned with the government, have engaged in acts of sexual violence and committed extensive violations against non-combatants in the eastern part of the country.

"The brutality of the warring parties knows no bounds; these atrocities are intended to punish, intimidate and humiliate civilians as each side attempts to assert control," stated Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.

The M23 group, which plays a central role in the unrest, currently holds a substantial portion of the region.

This includes key provincial centers like Goma and Bukavu, both of which were captured earlier in the year.

The United Nations, Kinshasa, and others have pointed fingers at neighboring Rwanda, alleging it provides backing to the M23 rebels — claims that Kigali has firmly rejected.

At the time of reporting, neither the Congolese authorities nor the M23 group had issued any statements in response to the allegations.

Nevertheless, Chagutah emphasized that both Rwanda and Congo should ensure those responsible for these "rights abuse[s]" face justice.

In compiling its findings, the rights body conducted interviews with over 53 individuals, including survivors of "gang rape," victims of violence, healthcare professionals, and members of civil society.

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