25 DR Congo Soldiers Sentenced to Death for Desertion and Theft

Military tribunal convicts soldiers of fleeing battles against M23 rebels and looting, amidst ongoing conflict in North Kivu.

The soldiers abandoned their positions and stole goods from nearby shops, leading to their conviction by a military court.
A total of 31 defendants, including soldiers and their wives, faced trial; four wives were acquitted.
The death penalty moratorium was lifted in March, citing the need to address treachery within the army.
M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have captured several strategic towns, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The DR Congo army faces significant challenges including poor discipline, inadequate resources, and internal divisions.