‘Army of Jesus’ suspects on trial for rape

Eighteen suspected militiamen, including a DRC provincial lawmaker, went on trial on Friday on charges of ‘crimes against humanity and taking part in an insurrectional movement’. Their lawyer Charles Cicura confirmed that they are appearing before a military court in Bukavu. A report on the News24 site notes that the suspects are accused of being members of the Djeshi ya Yesu militia (the Army of Jesus), which was led by Batumike. Batumike is accused of ‘recruiting a witch doctor who advised the militiamen to rape very young girls and thereby gain supernatural protection.’ Cicura said at least two of the rape victims died.