Archive · 3 Jun 2025
HRW: M23 Executed DRC Civilians; M23 Calls Report Propaganda
Human Rights Watch (HRW) says that the M23, a group fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), killed many civilians.
They say M23 fighters shot and killed at least 21 people near a military site.
HRW gathered information from people who saw it and from videos and photos.
HRW believes these killings were done on purpose and are against the rules of war.
The M23 group denies these claims, saying the report is not true.
HRW is asking the world to put pressure on Rwanda, because Rwanda is helping M23.
M23 is in control of many areas and is trying to make the Congolese afraid.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that the M23 militia executed Congolese civilians.
The executions occurred in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), near Goma.
HRW stated at least 21 civilians were summarily executed by M23 fighters in late February.
HRW accuses M23 of war crimes, based on witness testimonies, video, and photographs.
M23 spokesman responded, calling the report a propaganda instrument, denying the accusations.
- Who
- Human Rights Watch and the M23 militia, backed by Rwanda
- What
- M23 executed at least 21 Congolese civilians.
- When
- February 22 and 23
- Where
- Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, near Goma
- Why
- HRW believes M23 is solidifying control and committing war crimes; M23 denies allegations.
Human Rights Watch
M23 Militia
Civilian Killings
Human Rights Watch
M23 fighters deliberately executed civilians, constituting war crimes.
M23 Militia
The HRW report is a propaganda instrument; denies the allegations of executing civilians.
- Location
- Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
- Perpetrator
- M23 militia, backed by Rwanda
- Reported Executions
- At least 21 civilians
- Execution Dates
- February 22 and 23
- Execution Site
- Goma, near a former Congolese army barracks
- HRW Accusation
- War crimes
- M23 Response
- Propaganda instrument