Rwanda-backed rebels have captured two major cities in Congo’s mineral-rich east after a major escalation in their yearslong fighting against Congolese forces.

DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — The U.N. human rights chief accused Rwanda-backed rebels who seized a second major city in eastern Congo of killing children and attacking hospitals and warehouses storing humanitarian aid.

DAKAR, Senegal — Rwanda-backed rebels appeared to be heading toward a third major city in eastern Congo, residents said Tuesday, as international pressure rose over the M23's expansion in a mineral-rich region that’s critical for global technology.

The UN human rights chief has accused Rwanda-backed M23 rebels of committing atrocities, including child executions, after they took control of a second major city in eastern Congo. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement,

The accusation comes after M23 seized more territory in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. View on euronews

The United Nations Human Rights Council earlier this month launched a commission that will investigate atrocities.