UNICEF reports surge in child rapes amid escalating conflict in eastern Congo

UNICEF has reported that armed men in eastern Congo have raped many children in recent weeks, as conflict escalates between government forces and M23 rebels. The organization noted a significant rise in reported cases of sexual violence. In the week from January 27 to February 2, health facilities recorded 572 rape cases, a fivefold increase from the previous week. Among those treated, 170 were children. The specific groups responsible for the attacks remain unclear. The M23 rebels recently captured Goma, the region's largest city, intensifying 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.