M23 Rejects Claims of Detaining 50 Minors in Goma

The rebel group M23 and the Allied Forces of Congo (AFC) have denied recent allegations that they arrested fifty young people in the city of Goma, North Kivu province. The statements were issued after local media reported that security forces had taken the youths into custody following protests over alleged price hikes and insecurity. Both groups said the reports were unfounded and that no such operation had taken place. They called for journalists to verify information before publishing and warned that false claims could inflame tensions in the volatile region.

The denial comes amid ongoing instability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where armed groups, including M23, have been engaged in intermittent fighting with the Congolese army since the 2012 rebellion. The conflict has displaced millions, disrupted trade, and led to frequent civilian casualties. Goma, the provincial capital, has been a focal point for clashes and humanitarian concerns, with periodic outbreaks of violence affecting schools, markets, and health facilities.

Human rights organizations have previously documented arrests and intimidation of civilians in the area, but they have not confirmed the specific incident cited in the recent reports. Authorities in Goma have not provided an official comment on the matter, and the situation remains under close observation by both national and international monitors.