Two teenage boys who recently escaped from an armed rebel group operating in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo have given harrowing accounts of abuse, fear and forced violence after being recruited against their will.
The boys said they were taken from their communities and compelled to live in forest camps controlled by fighters linked to the Islamic State group. According to their testimonies, daily life was defined by intimidation, brutal discipline and constant exposure to killings carried out by the militia.
They described being forced to undergo weapons training and ideological indoctrination, with severe punishment for anyone who disobeyed orders or attempted to flee. One of the boys recounted witnessing civilians attacked during raids on nearby villages, saying the scenes left him traumatised and fearful for his life.
Local authorities and humanitarian workers say the recruitment of children remains a persistent tactic among armed groups in the region, particularly in areas plagued by weak security and prolonged conflict.
The use of minors as fighters, porters and messengers is a violation of international law, yet continues amid ongoing violence in Ituri province.
Aid organisations working with former child soldiers warn that many survivors struggle to reintegrate into society due to psychological scars and social stigma. They are calling for increased protection for vulnerable communities and expanded rehabilitation programmes to help rescued children rebuild their lives.
Despite military operations aimed at dismantling rebel networks, insecurity continues to disrupt daily life in parts of northeastern Congo, leaving children especially exposed to exploitation by armed groups.