The UN mission in the DRC (Monusco) said on Tuesday it has repatriated 34 Rwandan nationals, including 15 former fighters from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).
The return was carried out through Monusco’s disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration and stabilisation programme, according to media reports. The group also included 19 family members of the former combatants.
Rwandan officials confirmed the latest operation, which brings the total number of people repatriated in recent weeks to 60, including 33 ex-combatants.
The returnees crossed into Rwanda via the Goma–Rubavu border, where they were received by Rwandan authorities.
Monusco said voluntary surrenders by Rwandan rebels have increased around Goma in North Kivu in recent months, following the capture of the city by M23 rebels last year. Nearly 300 people have been repatriated since last year under the UN-backed programme.
The repatriations are part of a peace agreement signed by the DRC and Rwanda in Washington last June, aimed at stabilising eastern DRC through the neutralisation of armed groups.
FDLR fighters have operated in eastern DRC for decades and are believed to remain active in areas including Masisi, Rutshuru and Walikale, according to media.
Monusco said it has stepped up efforts to encourage surrender and voluntary return.
Rwanda classifies the FDLR as a terrorist group and says its dismantling is essential to national security, particularly amid ongoing tensions with the DRC over the M23 rebellion.