The UN chief condemned the recent attacks by the rebel group in eastern DR Congo

Mr Guterres has strongly condemned the attacks, which took place on 29 and 30 November in the villages of Kishishe and Bambo, located in Rutshuru district, North Kivu province, in the eastern part of the country.

At least 131 civilians were killed, including 17 women and 12 children, and eight others were injured.

Support for investigations

“The Secretary-General expresses his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said in a statement on Friday.

“He welcomes the decision of the Congolese authorities to investigate these incidents with the aim of bringing those found guilty to justice.”

Meanwhile, the UN human rights office in the DRC, and its peacekeeping mission there, MONUSCO, will continue to support the Government in these efforts.

End fights now

“The Secretary-General urges M23 and all other armed groups to immediately stop fighting and indiscriminate repression,” the statement continued.

Mr. Guterres also called on all parties to facilitate humanitarian access to the affected areas and to ensure the safety of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law.

He also emphasized the UN’s ongoing commitment to support the Congolese Government and people in their efforts to bring peace and stability to the east of the country.

The attacks are the latest in a series of crimes committed against civilians by armed groups in eastern DRC.

MONUSCO chief Bintou Keita briefed the UN Security Council in New York on Friday.

He told delegates that the security situation in eastern DRC had “deteriorated significantly” in recent weeks.