The United Nations Security Council Sanctions Committee, established under resolution 1533 (2004) concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo, approved on July 14 the addition of six individuals and two entities to its sanctions list, according to a communiqué published today. This decisive action targets key armed actors destabilizing eastern DRC.

At the top of the list is Corneille Nangaa, identified as leader of the AFC/M23, already under previous UN sanctions. Joining him is John Imani Nzenze, a colonel designated as M23 intelligence chief, sanctioned for his role in planning and supporting rebel group activities.

The measures also target two commanders from the Rwanda Liberation Democratic Forces (FDLR): Brigadier General Sébastien Uwimbabazi, based in Rutshuru, and Gustave Kubwayo, alias “Sirkoof,” FDLR-FOCA commander and head of the Deep Research and Action Commando (CRAP). They stand accused of targeting civilians, carrying out kidnappings for ransom, and illegal exploitation of natural resources.

Additional sanctions hit Muhammed Lumisa, commander, doctor, and logistics coordinator for the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF, of Ugandan origin), along with Colonel Charles Sematama, military leader of the Twirwaneho group active in South Kivu’s Highlands. Sematama faces accusations of atrocities against civilians since the group’s formation between 2008 and 2010.

Two entities are also blacklisted: the AFC, created in 2023, and Twirwaneho. These designations trigger asset freezes, travel bans, and arms embargoes against the listed individuals and groups. The move comes as persistent fighting in eastern Congo continues to draw international concern.