Over the weekend, more than 60,000 individuals fled the Sudanese city of el-Fasher, which was recently taken by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to the UN refugee agency. Reports have emerged of mass executions and serious human rights violations as RSF fighters advanced on the city after an 18-month siege characterized by starvation and heavy bombardment.
The influx of people fleeing the violence toward Tawila, located approximately 80 kilometers west of el-Fasher, has reportedly intensified. UNHCR representative Eujin Byun stated that displaced individuals are recounting accounts of severe atrocities, including sexual violence, while the agency faces challenges in providing adequate shelter and food. Reports indicate that all children among the displaced population are suffering from malnutrition.
In addition to those who have fled, more than 150,000 people are believed to remain trapped in el-Fasher, which previously served as the army’s last bastion in western Darfur. The RSF has denied allegations that the violence is ethnically motivated, suggesting it does not follow a pattern of Arab paramilitaries targeting non-Arab groups. However, the RSF has detained a member of its forces, Abu Lulu, who faces accusations of conducting summary executions. Footage of his arrest was shared after he was identified as responsible for the execution of several unarmed individuals near el-Fasher.
The conflict in Sudan escalated into civil war in April 2023 following a power struggle between the army and the RSF. This turmoil has led to a famine and claims of genocide in the Darfur region. Reports indicate that over 150,000 people have died nationwide, while around 12 million have been displaced, marking what the UN describes as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. The RSF’s takeover of el-Fasher further cements the division of control in Sudan, with the army retaining authority in the capital, Khartoum, and other central and eastern areas.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qppe4vdevo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss