Skip to content

DR Congo Military Court Sentences 25 Soldiers to Death for Fleeing the Enemy

The Butembo garrison military court, situated in the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has sentenced twenty-five soldiers to death for “fleeing the enemy.” The soldiers, part of a group of 31 defendants, including four civilian wives, faced numerous charges, including fleeing the enemy, dissipating war munitions, violating orders, and theft. The court acquitted the other six defendants, citing lack of evidence. The sentencing follows recent M23 rebel advances in the region, including the seizure of Kanyabayonga, a strategic town astride the pathway to the two commercial cities of Butembo and Beni. The death sentence would not have been possible before March, which was when the DRC government lifted a death penalty moratorium that had been in place since 2003. The government’s decision targets soldiers accused of treason and seeks to discourage soldiers from fleeing amidst ongoing armed rebellion.

SOURCE: FRANCE 24

Subscribe

Stay informed and ahead of the game with our curated collection of the top 10 stories from Africa each day, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. On Fridays, gear up for the business world as we bring you the 10 most relevant and game-changing business stories. And on Sundays, prepare to be whisked away on a delightful journey through Africa’s vibrant lifestyle and travel scenes.