In a report published on May 14, 2026, Human Rights Watch (HRW) accuses M23 rebels and Rwandan forces of committing serious abuses in Uvira, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). These abuses include extrajudicial killings, rapes, and kidnappings, which occurred during a prolonged occupation of the city.

According to HRW, this period of occupation was marked by acts of extreme violence. The organization cites the case of Jonathan Niya Papa Theogene, aged 45, who was killed by the rebels on April 29, 2026. His body was found beheaded near an M23 military position in the Kawele neighborhood. Other victims were executed for reasons deemed trivial by the occupiers.

Testimonies collected by HRW reveal an atmosphere of terror among the local population. Residents reported that the rebels had established a climate of impunity, where any form of resistance or denunciation was severely repressed. These abuses occurred as the region faces chronic instability exacerbated by the ongoing presence of the M23.

In light of these allegations, HRW calls on the Rwandan government to take concrete measures. The organization specifically demands that Kigali immediately suspend any senior military officials involved in these acts and initiate legal proceedings against them. This request is part of a broader framework aimed at ensuring respect for international humanitarian law during military operations in DR Congo.

The security situation in eastern DR Congo remains volatile. Tensions between armed groups, sometimes supported by neighboring states like Rwanda, continue to lead to massive human rights violations. International calls to end this violent dynamic are increasing but often have little tangible effect on the ground.