Advocacy Group Accuses M23 Rebels of Detaining Journalists in Inhumane Conditions in Eastern Congo

An international media rights organisation, Reporters Without Borders (RSF), has accused the March 23 Movement of detaining civilians, including journalists, in harsh and degrading conditions in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In a report released on Tuesday, RSF alleged that the Rwanda-backed rebel group held detainees in metal shipping containers in the city of Goma, describing the conditions as “inhumane” and “degrading.”

According to the organisation, at least two journalists were among those detained in the containers, which were reportedly used as makeshift prison cells within the compound of the provincial legislative assembly.

RSF said its findings were based on witness testimonies, satellite imagery, and photographic evidence collected in 2025. For security reasons, the identities of witnesses were not disclosed.

Witnesses reported that up to 80 detainees were crammed into a single container without access to light or ventilation, and were only allowed outside once a day. They also described minimal food provision, routine beatings, and extreme temperatures—ranging from intense daytime heat to cold nights.

Some detainees were reportedly held for several weeks before being transferred to other locations, with deaths also recorded under the harsh conditions.

The M23 rebels have yet to respond to the allegations.

The report highlights worsening conditions for journalists in eastern Congo following the group’s takeover of Goma last year. RSF noted that the rebels have tightened control over media operations, including imposing restrictions on how their presence is reported.

Eastern DR Congo has long been plagued by conflict involving more than 100 armed groups competing for control of the region’s vast mineral resources. The M23 rebels, widely reported to be backed by neighbouring Rwanda, have emerged as one of the most powerful factions.

Despite a ceasefire brokered by the United States and Qatar, fighting has persisted, deepening a humanitarian crisis that has displaced at least seven million people.

The latest allegations add to growing concerns over human rights abuses and press freedom violations in the region.