The United Nations has expanded its sanctions regime targeting armed groups operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern provinces. Among those newly listed is the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), led by Corneille Naanga, a former head of the country’s electoral commission. Also included is John Imani Nzenze, identified as the intelligence chief of the AFC’s military wing, which shares ties with the M23 rebel faction already under UN scrutiny.

Charles Sematama, military commander of the Twirwaneho militia—an ally of the AFC/M23—has also been added for alleged involvement in severe human rights abuses in South Kivu. The UN statement highlights killings of civilians, child recruitment, and persistent threats to regional security as key concerns linked to this group.

Frozen assets, travel bans, and Interpol listings

Additional sanctions target Muhammed Lumisa, logistics coordinator for the ADF jihadist faction, an Islamic State affiliate active in eastern DR Congo. The list also names two senior figures from the Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR): self-proclaimed Brigadier General Sébastien Uwimbabazi and Commander Gustave Kubwayo, both accused of destabilizing efforts in the region.

Groups accused of undermining peace and security

According to the UN, all designated individuals and entities are accused of activities that directly threaten peace, stability, and security in eastern DR Congo. Sanctions include asset freezes, travel restrictions, and entry onto Interpol watchlists. For the AFC and Twirwaneho, a comprehensive arms embargo has also been imposed, reinforcing regional efforts to curb violence.