The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed today that 15 individuals were transferred from Congolese custody to the M23 armed group operating in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. This marks the first concrete step in a prisoner exchange mechanism agreed upon in Doha last year, though no details were provided regarding the identities or roles of those involved.

Eastern DRC has faced persistent conflict for over three decades, with the M23 escalating its campaign since 2021. The group has seized control of significant territory in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, with Rwanda repeatedly accused of supporting its operations. In August 2024, Kinshasa handed down capital punishment to dozens of individuals, including some in absentia, for alleged ties to the M23.

Peace process stalls and renewed commitments

Negotiations between Kinshasa and M23 reached a critical juncture in September 2025 when both sides signed a prisoner exchange framework in Doha, Qatar. However, implementation stalled due to persistent disagreements. April discussions in Switzerland revived the initiative, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to prisoner releases.

The transfer, facilitated by the ICRC between Thursday and Friday, involved the strict adherence to health protocols amid an ongoing Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC. The organization emphasized that all preventive measures were followed during the operation, which was conducted under the framework of the Doha agreement.