A Congolese military tribunal has sentenced 13 soldiers to death, signaling a stern effort to restore discipline within the army.
The soldiers faced charges of murder, looting, and cowardice, a move aimed at curbing misconduct following setbacks in ongoing battles.
The tribunal convened in Lubero, North Kivu province, where the army is locked in a fierce fight against the Rwanda-backed M23 insurgency.
Local forces have also been battling militia violence, further straining the region’s already fragile security situation.
Mak Hazukay, a local army spokesperson, said the trial was necessary after cases of soldiers abandoning their posts fueled enemy advances.
“Indiscipline on the battlefield has emboldened the enemy. This trial is a step to correct these grave issues,” he said.
A total of 24 soldiers were tried. In addition to the death sentences, four received jail terms ranging from two to ten years.