DR Congo transfers 15 prisoners of war to the AFC and M23 rebel coalition

The United States of America has reportedly recognized the first transfer of 15 detainees from DR Congo authorities to AFC/M23 under the Doha Framework’s Prisoner Exchange Mechanism.

This is part of a confidence-building step in the year-old peace process.

However, none of the 15 convicts were on death row, though other detainees on the broader exchange list remain under such sentences.

The operation was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

It was carried out in close coordination with health authorities and in accordance with Ebola prevention measures.

An ambulance from the Uganda Red Cross Society accompanied the convoy throughout the transfer.

The ICRC’s Head of Operations in Kinshasa, Stephanie Eller, said the organization hoped the operation would bring comfort to families who had been separated from their loved ones for a long time.

“We hope this operation will help ease the suffering of families who have been separated from their relatives for so long and pave the way for further releases,” she said.

The release forms part of a series of confidence-building measures agreed under the Doha framework

The handover is being seen as an important confidence-building step, although significant challenges remain before a comprehensive peace agreement can be reached.

Negotiators are still expected to tackle sensitive issues, including security arrangements, governance, the return of displaced communities and the long-term stabilization of eastern DRC.

Meanwhile latest reports reveal that 10 people were killed in Separate Incidents as AFC/M23 Accuses FARDC Allies of Attacks in Kalehe and Masisi.

According to AFC/M23, at least 10 civilians were killed in two separate incidents on August 7, 2026.

AFC/M23 alleges that FARDC and allied forces shelled the Rumbishi market in Kalehe Territory at around 5:45 PM using 82mm mortars, leaving 9 civilians dead.

The group also claims that a later attack on Luki village in Masisi Territory at 8:20 PM killed Nkurunziza Sebahizi and seriously injured another resident.

Several civilian bodies, on the other hand were discovered in Bandimboyo, Mambasa Territory (Ituri), days after attacks attributed to the ADF between July 30-31. Local civil society groups say the victims were found by residents returning after fleeing the violence.

The security situation remains alarming, with several people, including children, reported missing following alleged kidnappings near Teturi.

A day earlier, 10 civilian bodies were reportedly found on church grounds in Munguiko after another attack blamed on the ADF.