In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has escalated its campaign of intimidation and violence against journalists and human rights activists.
This alarming trend threatens press freedom and civil liberties in the region.
Human Rights Watch provides evidence showing M23 rebels have attacked activists and media personnel through harassment and physical attacks while threatening them.
The rebels engage in activities which seek to control critical reporting while eliminating different types of dissent.
The insurgent group directly seeks out people who document human rights abuses together with their illegal activities.
The M23 rebellion has increased its military activities throughout eastern DR Congo after it seized mineral-rich areas starting from 2012.
The M23 rebels regaining power has caused rising chaos that mainly affects the native population in the area.
Thousands of people lost their homes when the group operated which made the humanitarian crisis even worse.
The government of Congo has issued high financial rewards to people who provide details about capturing the M23’s most senior leadership.
The $5 million reward demonstrates how important it is to dismantle the rebel leadership because peace remains a top priority.
Due to the worsening situation the international world has shown profound worry about the circumstances.
International actors demand Rwanda ends its backing of M23 as all parties should initiate dialogue to end the armed conflict.
M23 rebels show their extreme contempt for basic human rights and legal principles through their attacks against journalists and activists.
Citizens of Bukavu experience widespread mob justice activity since M23 took control.
Recent vigilantism resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people because of lawlessness spreading through the area.
Residents have started handling situations themselves because police services have completely failed leading to increased instability in the area.
The situation has worsened because numerous prisoners escaped from confinement.
The chaos has caused many thousands of inmates from different security levels to escape from their detention centers.
The prison escape situation has led to increased community insecurity because numerous prisoners now participate in looting and commit assaults according to reports
