In a report released on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the leadership of the M23‑AFC rebel group in eastern DR Congo of forcibly expelling over 1,500 Congolese civilians into Rwanda, under the pretext of repatriating Rwandan nationals.
According to HRW, many of those expelled came from Karenga village in Masisi territory, often accused of being Rwandan rather than Congolese—contradicting M23’s own claims. The investigation found that people were rounded up in Sake, transferred to Goma, and then placed on lists for deportation to Rwanda—with no access to due process or legal recourse.
HRW’s senior researcher, Clémentine de Montjoye, explained:
“Their national ID cards—often the only proof of identity—were burned by M23‑AFC leaders, accusing them of using forged documents.”
Such actions, HRW argues, may qualify as war crimes under international law—violating human rights and humanitarian standards.
“Whether Congolese citizens or Rwandan refugees, forced population transfers are illegal,” said de Montjoye. “They may even constitute a war crime.”
The report also implicates the UNHCR, alleging that its staff provided logistical support for the forced relocation without verifying the identity or consent of those affected:
“UNHCR was responsible for verifying identities and consent. That did not happen properly in this case.”
As an example, HRW references Mélance Maniraguha Ndikubwimana, who told TV5 Monde in late May:
“No one here is Rwandan. I am Congolese. I want to return home.”
Since May 2025, HRW documents indicate that M23‑AFC has intensified its efforts to expel those suspected of being Rwandan, especially among ethnic Hutu Congolese. Many were labeled as members of FDLR, genocide supporters, or extremists—despite lack of evidence or fair process.
HRW demands an independent investigation and calls on the international community to condemn and halt these practices immediately.
