The warning follows revelations that at least 21 civilians were executed by M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

A new HRW report details how the Rwanda-backed rebel group carried out the killings in Goma’s Kasika neighbourhood and surrounding areas on February 22 and 23, 2025. The executions were systematic and deliberate, raising serious concerns about war crimes.

Clémentine de Montjoye, HRW's senior Great Lakes researcher said that evidence was gathered through witness testimonies and verified videos and photos. “These were not casualties of crossfire. Many victims were shot in the head or chest, clear signs of execution,” she said.

Kasika lies next to the Katindo military camp, formerly used by the Congolese army. Witnesses reported that M23 fighters arrived in multiple pickup trucks, forcibly removed young men from their homes, and executed several in the street. Others were taken away and later found dead at a nearby construction site.

The following day, more young men were rounded up. Three were killed while attempting to escape. One M23 fighter seen in video footage wore a red armband, believed to signify the group’s military police.

HRW is urging the International Criminal Court to include these killings in its investigations into crimes committed in North Kivu since 2022. “There needs to be accountability not only for those who pull the trigger but also for those who allow it to happen,” de Montjoye highlighted.

Despite recent international efforts to broker peace between Rwanda and DRC, HRW criticised the lack of focus on justice. “Pressure must be placed on both governments to stop backing abusive armed groups and to protect civilians,” the organisation said.

--ChannelAfrica--