In a significant discovery in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, authorities reported finding at least 171 bodies in mass graves located in regions formerly controlled by M23 rebels. These graves, found near the city of Uvira in South Kivu province, highlight the ongoing violence in the area despite attempts at a ceasefire. The findings, reported by the Associated Press, indicate a worrying escalation in conflicts and violence in a region that has been marked by instability for years.

Local officials, including Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi, indicated that 30 bodies were uncovered in Kiromoni, close to the Burundian border, while an additional 141 bodies were located in Kavimvira. Both the governor and a civil society group, the Local Network for the Protection of Civilians, have accused M23 rebel fighters of executing civilians believed to be supporting the Congolese army or allied militia groups. This brings attention to the severe humanitarian implications in a region that has seen substantial violence.

The background to these events includes a contentious conflict where M23 rebels briefly captured Uvira before being ousted by the Congolese army last month. The Congolese government has reported that over 1,500 individuals were killed during the offensive against the M23. The United Nations has also highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with around 200,000 people currently displaced as a result of these conflicts, indicating that the situation in DR Congo remains dire and requires urgent international attention.