The M23 rebel movement has reclaimed its position as the deadliest armed group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to fresh data from the Kivu Security Tracker (KST). In June alone, the group was linked to at least 114 civilian deaths and 17 abductions, marking the highest monthly toll since December 2025.
The latest KST report documented 247 security incidents across Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces in June—a 19% drop from May’s 305 incidents. However, researchers warn this decline masks a dangerous shift in violence patterns in the region.
New offensives fuel civilian casualties
The surge in M23-related fatalities coincides with renewed military operations in Masisi and Rutshuru territories. Civil society groups report the group has systematically targeted individuals accused of collaborating with rival factions, including the Wazalendo militia and Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR).
The most devastating incident occurred in Bibwe village, Masisi territory, where at least 48 bodies were recovered following an M23 offensive against FDLR positions. Local testimonies indicate most victims died from shrapnel wounds, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.
M23 dominates conflict landscape
The KST recorded 115 armed clashes in June, with M23 initiating 46 of them—accounting for 40% of all documented combat incidents. The group’s resurgence comes months after it seized control of Uvira in late 2025, signaling an escalation in its military ambitions.
Other armed factions have shown contrasting trends:
- Convention for Popular Revolution (CRP) in Ituri has reduced activity following a unilateral ceasefire declared in May, ahead of planned negotiations with the Congolese government under Ugandan mediation.
- Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) announced its transformation into a politico-military movement, seeking political recognition and internal cohesion.
- Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) maintained their brutal campaign, responsible for 62 civilian deaths and 57 abductions in June, while expanding operations into new areas including Haut-Uele province.
The shifting dynamics underscore the complex, multi-layered conflict plaguing eastern DRC, where armed groups vie for territorial control while civilians bear the brunt of violence. International observers continue to express concern over the deteriorating security situation and its humanitarian consequences.