M23 resurges as deadliest armed group in eastern DRC

The M23 rebel group has reclaimed its position as the most lethal armed faction in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after a surge in violence during June, according to fresh data from the Kivu Security Tracker (KST).

Violence escalates in North Kivu

In June, the M23 was responsible for at least 114 civilian deaths and 17 abductions, marking its deadliest monthly toll since December 2025. This surge coincides with renewed offensives in Masisi and Rutshuru territories, where civilians accused of collaborating with rival factions—including the Wazalendo and FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda)—were systematically targeted.

The KST documented 247 security incidents across Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu in June, a 19% decrease from May’s 305 incidents. However, analysts warn this decline masks a dangerous recomposition of violence, with M23 accounting for 40% of all armed clashes (46 out of 115 recorded fights).

Mass casualties in Masisi

One of the deadliest episodes occurred in Bibwe village (Masisi), where at least 48 bodies were recovered following an M23 operation against FDLR rebels. Local testimonies suggest most victims died from shrapnel wounds sustained during artillery fire.

Shifting dynamics in Ituri

While violence in Ituri decreased slightly in June, the Popular Revolution Convention (CRP) maintained a unilateral ceasefire declared in May, ahead of negotiations with the Congolese government under Ugandan mediation.

The Cooperative for Development of Congo (Codeco) also announced its transformation into a politico-military movement, framing the move as an effort to gain political recognition and reduce internal divisions.

ADF remains a persistent threat

The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continued their campaign of brutality, killing at least 62 civilians and abducting 57 others in June. Their operational reach expanded beyond traditional strongholds, extending into Haut-Uele province.

The KST report underscores the worsening humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC, where civilian populations bear the brunt of escalating armed confrontations and systemic abuses.