Children were executed by M23 in Congo – United Nations

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels executed three children after they put on weapons and uniforms abandoned by the Congolese army in the eastern city of Bukavu.

The United Nations Human Rights Office disclosed this on Tuesday, expressing alarm over the incident and other violations committed since the rebels arrived in the city.

During a press briefing in Geneva, UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani confirmed the reports.

“Our office has verified cases of the summary execution of children by M23 after they entered the city of Bukavu last week,” she said.

Shamdasani also raised concerns for journalists, human rights defenders, and members of civil society organisations who are seeking protection from reprisals by M23.