M23 claims highest civilian toll in eastern DRC for june

The M23 rebel faction has reclaimed its position as the deadliest armed group in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) after inflicting at least 114 civilian casualties in June, according to the latest Kivu Security Tracker (KST) report.

The KST documented 247 security incidents across Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces in June—a 19% decrease from May’s 305 incidents. However, this reduction masks a dangerous shift in violence patterns, with the report highlighting a surge in targeted attacks by the M23.

Escalating violence and civilian targeting

The M23 was directly linked to 114 civilian deaths and 17 abductions in June, marking the highest monthly toll attributed to the group since December 2025. This alarming spike coincides with renewed offensives in Masisi and Rutshuru territories, where civilians were accused of collaborating with rival factions such as the Wazalendo or the Rwanda-backed Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

In one of the most harrowing incidents, at least 48 bodies were recovered in Bibwe village, Masisi territory, following an M23 operation targeting FDLR positions. Local testimonies indicate most victims died from shelling shrapnel, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the assault.

Dominance in armed confrontations

Out of 115 armed clashes recorded in June, the M23 initiated 46—accounting for 40% of all documented combat operations. This statistic underscores the group’s aggressive expansion strategy despite ongoing regional peace initiatives.

Shifting dynamics in Ituri

In contrast, the Popular Revolution Convention (CRP) showed reduced activity in Ituri after declaring a unilateral ceasefire in May. The move was framed as a precursor to negotiations with the Congolese government, mediated by Ugandan authorities. Meanwhile, the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (Codeco) announced its transformation into a politico-military movement, seeking political recognition and internal cohesion.

The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continued their campaign of violence, responsible for 62 civilian deaths and 57 abductions in June. Their operational reach has expanded beyond traditional strongholds, now extending into Haut-Uele province.