The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a Sudanese paramilitary group, announced the capture of the army headquarters in el-Fasher, a city under siege amid ongoing civil conflict. According to the RSF, they destroyed significant military vehicles and seized military equipment at the army’s 6th Division Headquarters. BBC Verify has confirmed the authenticity of videos showing RSF fighters in the army base.
This development follows 18 months of RSF encirclement around el-Fasher, where army positions and civilians have faced regular bombardment. Approximately 300,000 individuals remain trapped due to the ongoing fighting. Recent satellite imagery has revealed the construction of extensive earthen walls around the city, indicating efforts to contain the population.
While some areas of el-Fasher are still under army control, these positions are not expected to withstand the RSF’s advances much longer. The local population has been grappling with hunger and disease, worsened by the continuous bombardment and scarcity of food and medical supplies.
UN investigators have accused the RSF of committing crimes against humanity during the siege, and the United States has characterized their actions as genocidal against non-Arab populations in Darfur. Since early 2023, Sudan has experienced significant turmoil following a power struggle between leaders of the RSF and the Sudanese army. The conflict has resulted in over 150,000 fatalities and displaced approximately 12 million people, contributing to what has been described as one of the worst humanitarian crises.
Currently, the Sudanese army retains control over most northern and eastern regions, while the RSF has gained near-total control of Darfur and parts of the neighboring Kordofan region. Their intentions for el-Fasher include the establishment of a rival government once complete control is achieved.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c78z025dze4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss