UNICEF reports child rapes by armed groups in eastern Congo as conflict escalates

UNICEF has accused armed men in eastern Congo of raping many children in recent weeks as rebel groups expand their control. Reports indicate that both M23 rebels and government forces are involved in these abuses. Health facilities reported 572 rape cases from January 27 to February 2, a significant increase from the previous week. Among those treated, 170 were children. The specific groups responsible for the rapes remain unclear. The M23 rebels recently captured Goma, escalating the conflict. The UN Human Rights Council has launched an investigation into these atrocities, while a trial for 84 Congolese soldiers accused of serious crimes is underway in Bukavu.