A new investigation by Human Rights Watch has revealed shocking accounts of violence and human rights abuses committed during the occupation of Uvira, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Survivors say civilians were killed, families destroyed, and women assaulted during weeks of control by M23 rebels and alleged Rwandan forces.
According to the report, at least 53 civilians including women and children were reportedly executed during house-to-house raids after rebel fighters entered the city in December. Residents described scenes of panic as thousands fled toward safer areas near Lake Tanganyika. Several witnesses claimed they saw armed men shooting civilians in front of their homes. Others said entire families were attacked while attempting to escape the violence. Human Rights Watch says the testimonies gathered point to possible war crimes, including forced disappearances, sexual violence, and unlawful killings.
The M23 group has long been accused by international observers of receiving support from Rwanda, although the Rwandan government continues to deny involvement in the conflict. The report also highlights the suffering of women and children during the occupation. Survivors described acts of rape, intimidation, and violent threats by armed men. Investigators further reported discovering possible mass grave sites around the city. Eastern DR Congo remains one of Africa’s most unstable regions, with millions displaced by years of armed conflict, poverty, and political tension. Humanitarian organizations continue to call for international action to protect civilians and restore peace in the region.