Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group of attacking journalists and activists in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The group’s increasing control over the region, which is rich in minerals, has led to heightened violence and abuse against the media and peaceful critics, HRW reported on Wednesday.
In recent weeks, M23 fighters have escalated attacks on reporters, activists, and those critical of their actions.
Many journalists have faced threats, raids on their homes, and fear for their safety, particularly in the city of Goma, where a significant number of journalists are trapped. Some have received phone threats warning them about their coverage of the group’s violations.
HRW also highlighted incidents such as the fatal shooting of singer-activist Delphin Katembo Vinywasiki, known as Delcat Idengo, and the execution of activist Pierre Katema Byamungu.
The rights group urged the international community, including the EU, to impose stricter sanctions on M23 and responsible Rwandan and Congolese officials.
M23 has denied these allegations, calling HRW’s report false and claiming the group supports press freedom.
