DR Congo Denies Allegations of Staged Handover of Hutu Rebels

The DRC has accused Rwanda of staging the handover of 20 alleged Hutu fighters, claiming the video was faked. The M23 group, backed by Rwanda, reported capturing these fighters, but the DRC military asserts it is part of a strategy to justify Rwanda’s interventions. The situation in eastern DRC could lead to broader regional conflicts.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has rejected claims regarding the capture of 20 alleged fighters associated with the Rwandan genocide, labeling the handover video to Rwanda as fabricated. This denial follows statements from the M23 armed group, which is backed by Rwanda, asserting that these fighters, part of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), were captured in eastern DRC.

Rwanda has historically cited the alleged existence of FDLR members in DRC as a rationale for its support of the M23, which has expanded its control across significant portions of eastern DRC, including critical cities such as Goma and Bukavu.

The M23 released a video claiming to depict the transfer of these alleged FDLR fighters at a border checkpoint, but the DRC military characterized this event as a poorly executed deception aimed at undermining its credibility. The DRC military accused Rwanda of taking detainees who were already in custody, dressing them in military uniforms, and presenting them as newly captured personnel.

Additionally, the DRC’s military leadership accused Rwanda of committing war crimes, specifically alleging that the Rwandan army had executed injured and ill soldiers in a Goma hospital. The ongoing strife in eastern DRC raises concerns regarding the potential for an extensive regional conflict involving various countries, including Rwanda and Uganda.

In summary, the DRC government has dismissed the claims surrounding the handover of alleged FDLR fighters as a fabrication intended to discredit its armed forces. This incident reflects broader tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, particularly regarding military actions and accusations from both sides. The potential for escalating hostilities in the region remains a significant concern.

Original Source: jordantimes.com