Amnesty International accuses rival forces in DRC of committing ugly crimes
(MENAFN) Amnesty International has accused rival forces in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo of carrying out severe human rights violations, including gang rapes, executions without trial, and kidnappings, according to findings released Wednesday.
The organization’s latest report stated that both the M23 rebel group and the pro-government militia known as the Wazalendo have been responsible for widespread abuses targeting civilians. “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,” said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.
M23 currently holds control over large parts of eastern Congo, including the major cities of Goma and Bukavu, which the rebels seized earlier this year. Regional and international authorities have long accused Rwanda of backing M23, though Kigali denies the allegation.
At the time of the report, neither the Congolese government nor M23 leaders issued a response.
Chagutah urged both Rwanda and the DRC to ensure accountability for those responsible for abuses. Amnesty said its investigation involved interviews with more than 50 people, including survivors of sexual violence, eyewitnesses, medical staff, and members of civil society.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
