Since the capture of Goma in January 2025, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have established a reign of terror marked by mass arrests, abductions, and attacks on hospitals. Recent reports from local sources and human rights organizations depict an alarming situation involving targeted violence against civilians, systematic disappearances, and blatant violations of international humanitarian law.
On the night of March 2, at least 112 people were abducted by M23 fighters from CBCA/Ndosho Hospital in Goma. According to multiple witnesses, the rebels stormed the facility around 3 a.m., targeting patients, caregivers, and individuals recently discharged. The abductees were accused of being members of the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) or Wazalendo militias allegedly hiding within the hospital. While some civilians were later released after verification, the whereabouts of the remaining detainees remain unknown, further heightening fear among Goma’s already traumatized population.
This attack is not an isolated incident. A similar operation took place between February 28 and March 1 at Heal Africa Hospital, where armed M23 fighters stormed the facility, causing panic among patients and medical staff. According to eyewitnesses, the rebels were searching for gunshot victims they suspected to be Congolese soldiers. For nearly five hours, from 11:30 p.m. to 3 a.m., they combed through the hospital, firing shots and intimidating medical personnel. Some injured patients were forcibly removed from their beds and taken away.
M23’s campaign of violence extends beyond hospitals. Reports indicate a surge in arbitrary arrests and forced disappearances across Goma. According to local sources, many detainees are held in makeshift detention centers controlled by M23, including facilities of the National Intelligence Agency (ANR), which the rebels have taken over. Desperate families are posting missing persons alerts on social media, hoping to locate their loved ones. Most victims are young men and adult males whom the rebels suspect of belonging to local defense groups or collaborating with the Congolese army.
The systematic targeting of hospitals, civilians, and suspected opponents by M23 reflects a strategy of control through terror. Their tactics—abductions, extrajudicial executions, and the use of medical facilities as hunting grounds—are clear violations of international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection of medical institutions in times of conflict.
Despite these atrocities, Rwanda, M23’s main backer, continues to deny its involvement while deflecting blame onto the Congolese government. Kigali’s recent attempt to accuse Canada of economic opportunism following sanctions against Rwanda is yet another example of Paul Kagame’s well-honed strategy to evade responsibility. Meanwhile, the people of Goma remain trapped under M23’s rule, with no security and little hope for an end to the violence.
Therwandan
