Final report of mass rapes and other human rights violations in Walikale territory (July 2011)

This report presents the findings of the investigations undertaken by the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) into the mass rapes and other human rights violations committed during the attacks on 13 villages along the Kibu-Mpofi axis in Walikale territory, North Kivu, between 30 July and 2 August 2010. As a result of its investigations, the UNJHRO is able to conclude that at least 387 civilians, including 300 women, 23 men, 55 girls and 9 boys, were raped by a coalition of combatants from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, the Mayi Mayi Sheka and residual elements of forces under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Nsengiyumva. In addition, at least 923 houses and 42 shops were looted and 116 civilians abducted and subjected to forced labor by the assailants. The report also covers the latest developments with regard to the investigations carried out by the military judicial authorities following the violations. Finally, the report includes recommendations to ensure better protection of civilians and guarantee respect for international humanitarian and human rights law following these attacks.

Date of publication: 6 July 2011