DAKAR, Senegal — Rwanda-backed rebels killed not less than 319 folks over the previous month in jap Congo, the U.N. human rights chief stated Wednesday, describing the toll as one of many largest documented in such assaults because the M23 rebels resurfaced in 2022.
Citing firsthand accounts, U.N. human rights chief Volker Türk stated in an announcement that the rebels, backed by members of the Rwandan Protection Drive, focused 4 villages in North Kivu province’s Rutshuru territory between July 9 and July 21.
The persevering with violence might threaten Qatar-led efforts to get Congo and the rebels to signal a everlasting peace deal by the aim of Aug. 18. One of many deal’s circumstances is the safety of civilians and secure return of tens of millions of individuals displaced by the battle.
There was no rapid M23 remark.
The M23 early this 12 months seized two key cities in jap Congo in a serious escalation, with the assistance of neighboring Rwandan forces. Congo has lengthy been wracked by lethal battle in its mineral-rich east, with greater than 100 armed teams.
The 2 sides on July 19 signed a declaration of rules in Qatar to finish the combating and decide to a complete peace settlement that would come with the restoration of state authorities in key jap cities managed by the insurgents.
The brand new U.N. assertion stated lethal assaults occurred within the days following that signing.
“I’m appalled by the assaults on civilians by the M23 and different armed teams” regardless of the declaration, the U.N. human rights chief stated, calling for an instantaneous finish to assaults on civilians.
