News|ConflictMass graves with 171 bodies found in eastern DR Congo: ReportA local governor says authorities found two mass graves in the outskirts of the eastern city of Uvira which the rebel M23 group seized in December.
Authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have reported the discovery of mass graves in the eastern region, following the withdrawal of the M23 rebel group. The situation occurs amidst ongoing conflict in the area despite a peace…
Authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have reported the discovery of mass graves in the eastern region, following the withdrawal of the M23 rebel group. The situation occurs amidst ongoing conflict in the area despite a peace agreement mediated by the United States.
Jean-Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, confirmed the identification of two mass graves in the Kiromoni and Kavimvira neighborhoods near Uvira city. These graves contain at least 171 bodies, with approximately 30 bodies found in Kiromoni and 141 in Kavimvira.
Local civil society groups have expressed a desire to inspect the sites but reported being restricted by the Congolese military. Preliminary information suggests the victims might have been killed by M23 rebels, as they were suspected of affiliations with the DRC army or pro-government militias.
M23 is one of over 100 armed groups operating in the mineral-rich eastern region of the DRC, near the Rwanda border. The group has been involved in conflict with the DRC government since 2012, with a notable escalation in 2021. In 2025, M23 seized key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, and later took control of Uvira, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.
Authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have reported the discovery of mass graves in the eastern region, following the withdrawal of the M23 rebel group.
The group claims its actions are in defense of the minority Tutsi community, alleging marginalization by the state. The DRC government accuses Rwanda of supporting M23 in its efforts to control land and resources.
Despite peace negotiations mediated by Qatar and the United States, hostilities persist in the region. The conflict has resulted in one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises, with over seven million people displaced and thousands of casualties.
Additionally, a recent mine collapse in Rubaya further exacerbated the humanitarian situation, causing over 200 fatalities.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
