Mass rape in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Foreign Office Minister David Lidington has spoken after reports of mass rape in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Mr Lidington said:
“I am shocked and appalled by the recently reported mass rape of over 150 women and children by armed militia groups in Walikale territory in eastern DRC. These attacks are yet another grave example of the levels of sexual violence and the threat faced by civilians on a daily basis in DRC.
I welcome the decision of the UN Secretary General to send two senior officials to investigate the incident and take charge of the UN response. I understand that MONUSCO have already increased their patrols and civilian protection measures in the area. I call upon the Government of DRC to enact their zero tolerance policy on human rights abusers and bring the perpetrators to justice.”