M23 regains deadly dominance in eastern DRC conflict

The M23 rebel group has reclaimed its status as the deadliest armed faction in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during June, according to fresh data from the Kivu Security Tracker (KST).

June violence: a shifting pattern of conflict

The KST documented 247 security incidents across Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces in June, representing a 19% decline from May’s 305 recorded incidents. However, this reduction masks a dangerous evolution in the nature of violence.

The M23 movement accounted for the highest civilian toll, with at least 114 deaths and 17 abductions reported during the month. This represents the group’s deadliest monthly toll since December 2025, when the rebellion seized control of Uvira.

The surge in violence correlates with renewed offensives in Masisi and Rutshuru territories, where civilians accused of collaborating with either the Wazalendo militias or Rwanda-backed Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR) became primary targets.

Grave findings in Masisi territory

The most harrowing incident occurred in Bibwe village, Masisi territory, where 48 bodies were discovered following M23 operations against FDLR forces. Witness accounts indicate most victims died from artillery shell fragments.

In total, the KST recorded 115 armed clashes in June, with the M23 initiating 46 of these engagements—representing 40% of all documented combat incidents for the month.

Shifting dynamics in other armed groups

Ituri Province witnessed a notable decrease in activity from the Convention pour la Révolution Populaire (CRP) following its unilateral ceasefire declaration in May and ongoing negotiations with the Congolese government under Ugandan mediation.

The Codeco militia announced its transformation into a political-military movement, presenting this shift as an effort to gain political recognition and reduce internal divisions.

Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continued their campaign of civilian targeting, responsible for at least 62 deaths and 57 abductions in June. The group’s operational reach appears to be expanding beyond traditional strongholds into Haut-Uele province.

Humanitarian implications

These developments underscore the persistent security crisis gripping eastern DRC, with civilians bearing the brunt of escalating violence. The shifting alliances and tactical maneuvers among armed groups continue to destabilize communities already struggling with years of conflict.

The KST’s June report paints a concerning picture of a conflict that, while showing some reduction in incident volume, is becoming increasingly lethal and complex in its execution.