The DRC army has denied reports of capturing 20 FDLR fighters, calling a video of their handover to Rwanda fabricated. The M23 group, backed by Rwanda, claims to have captured the fighters, but DRC officials assert this is a propaganda effort to justify Rwandan intervention in DRC’s territory. Accusations also include Rwandan war crimes, raising fears of escalating conflict in the region.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) army has refuted claims that 20 fighters associated with the Rwandan genocide were captured on its soil, labeling a video showing the handover to Rwanda as fabricated. This response follows the M23 armed group’s announcement of capturing members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which consists of Hutu militia involved in the 1994 genocide.

The M23 group, which has received support from Rwanda, has recently made significant territorial gains in eastern DRC, including strategic locations like Goma and Bukavu. In a video released by M23, they purportedly hand over 20 alleged FDLR members at a border post. However, DRC military officials claim this event was staged to undermine their credibility.

The DRC military leadership characterized the staged handover as part of a broader Rwandan strategy aimed at justifying its military actions within DRC. They charged that Rwandan forces manipulated the situation, dressing old detainees in new uniforms to pass them off as new captures. Additionally, the DRC accused Rwandan troops of committing war crimes, including the execution of wounded soldiers.

The conflict in eastern DRC highlights escalating tensions involving Rwanda and the M23 armed group, raising concerns over regional stability. The DRC’s denial of the alleged capture of FDLR fighters and accusations against Rwandan forces emphasize the complexities of military interactions in the area. The situation remains precarious, with potential implications for broader regional conflict.

Original Source: jordantimes.com