UN experts warn of M23 "regime of terror" in DRC areas

United Nations experts have issued a stark warning about the "regime of terror" inflicted by the M23 rebel group in areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo under its control. The group's dominance in parts of North Kivu province has led to widespread human rights abuses against the civilian population.

According to the experts' report, the M23 rebels are responsible for systematic violations, creating an atmosphere of fear and instability. These abuses include extrajudicial killings, widespread sexual violence, and the forced displacement of thousands of people from their homes. The report details how the group maintains control through intimidation and violence.

The M23, a primarily Tutsi-led rebel movement, has been active in eastern DRC for years, often clashing with government forces and other armed groups. Its resurgence in recent years has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the region, which has been plagued by conflict and instability for decades.

The UN experts urged the international community to take decisive action to address the escalating crisis and hold perpetrators accountable. They emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to the affected populations and called for renewed diplomatic efforts to find a lasting solution to the conflict in eastern DRC.