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Twenty-five soldiers in Congo have been sentenced to death for desertion and theft during battles against M23 rebels in the conflict-ridden east of the country.
The soldiers were also convicted of theft, having stolen goods from shops in a nearby village after abandoning their posts, an army spokesman revealed.
In addition to the soldiers’ convictions, four of their wives were acquitted by the military court of receiving goods looted by their husbands.
The military tribunal in North Kivu province handed down the sentences.
A lawyer representing the soldiers, two of whom were captains, has announced plans to appeal the decision. Alongside the death sentences, one soldier received a 10-year prison term while another was acquitted.
The DRC government had lifted a 20-year moratorium on the death penalty in March, with the justice minister citing the need to remove “traitors” from the army.
Earlier, in May, a military court in Goma sentenced eight soldiers to death for “desertion” and “cowardice” in combat against rebel forces. These soldiers are also appealing their sentences.
The M23 rebels have recently captured several towns, including the strategically important Kanyabayonga.
The DRC army’s fight against M23 and other rebel groups has long been plagued by disarray, with issues such as poor pay and lack of equipment contributing to its reputation as unprofessional and badly disciplined.
Despite support from UN and regional state troops, the violence continues unabated. M23 fighters are reported to be well-armed and disciplined.
