Widespread forced recruitment

Human Rights Watch documented that M23 intensified its forced recruitment campaigns after capturing Goma and Bukavu in early 2025. Thousands of Congolese soldiers, local armed group members, and civilians were reportedly arrested and held in makeshift detention centres. Witnesses told investigators that people were abducted from streets, homes, or gatherings at schools and churches before being transferred to military camps.

Minors among the victims

The report highlights that some captives were as young as 12. Many were sent to training centres where they received military and ideological instruction meant to incorporate them into M23 ranks. Human Rights Watch stated that these recruitments were coercive, with detainees threatened with death if they refused to join.

Detention conditions condemned

The organisation describes extremely harsh detention conditions, including overcrowding, lack of food and water, and repeated physical violence. Former detainees reported witnessing deaths from starvation, dehydration, mistreatment, or summary executions. Human Rights Watch said the exact number of victims remains unknown, but gathered testimonies suggest hundreds may have perished in these camps.

Allegations also target Rwanda

Several witnesses reported identifying M23 officers in the detention centres. Some also stated that instructors and guards were Rwandan nationals and that some wore Rwandan army uniforms. These allegations come amid strong regional tensions, as Kigali continues to deny claims of direct military support to M23.