At least 75 Congolese soldiers will stand trial for deserting their posts as M23 rebels advance in eastern Congo, the military prosecutor's office said. The troops face charges including murder, rape, and looting following their retreat from the frontline in South Kivu.
Congo’s military authorities announced the trial of 75 soldiers accused of fleeing as M23 rebels seized the town of Nyabibwe, located 70 km north of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. The troops also face charges of violence against civilians, including looting and murder.
The United Nations has reported widespread human rights violations following the M23 offensive, implicating rebels, Congolese forces, and pro-government militias in abuses such as summary executions and sexual violence. Congo has not responded to allegations against its soldiers but has called for a U.N. investigation into crimes it blames on M23 rebels and Rwanda.
Rwanda, which denies supporting M23, has rejected any responsibility. The rebel group has not commented on the accusations. Despite announcing a ceasefire, M23 forces continue advancing south toward Bukavu, raising fears of further instability.
Local civil society groups report ongoing looting by deserting soldiers, with at least 10 civilians killed in Kavumu, a town near Bukavu’s airport. Provincial army spokesman Nestor Mavudisa assured that rogue troops would be punished and urged civilians to remain calm.
Meanwhile, fighting over the weekend remained sporadic, with clashes reported in a national park 30 km from Bukavu. In a bid to ease tensions, African leaders convened a rare joint summit last week, urging direct talks between the warring parties. The Congolese government acknowledged the summit’s resolutions but has yet to outline its next steps.
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