Reports of mass atrocities are emerging from El-Fasher. The capital of Sudan’s North Darfur state fell to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on 26 October after the withdrawal of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The two sides have been at war since April 2023.
International bodies and researchers have detailed a grim situation. Eyewitness accounts and satellite imagery suggest widespread violence, including summary executions, sexual violence, and mass killings.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has expressed alarm. It stated that these acts may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute. The ICC is actively investigating these alleged crimes.
The humanitarian situation is dire. The city’s 1.5 million residents face catastrophic shortages of food, water, and medicine. A formal famine has been declared in parts of Sudan. This is due to the deliberate obstruction of aid. Many residents are reportedly eating animal feed to survive.
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Evidence of mass graves
Researchers are using satellite technology to monitor the crisis. Nathaniel Raymond, from Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab, reported that the RSF is digging mass graves. He described this as a cover-up attempt. Satellite images show evidence of mass killings and large piles of bodies. These findings corroborate reports from the ground.
The RSF’s capture of El-Fasher marks a significant escalation. It has led to the world’s largest current displacement crisis. Over 70,000 people have fled the city since late October. Many more remain trapped.
The conflict in Darfur is not new. The region was the centre of a genocide from 2003 to 2008. The Janjaweed militia, the precursor to the RSF, was heavily implicated. The recent ICC conviction of Janjaweed leader Ali Kushayb serves as a warning.
The RSF’s control over the entire Darfur region raises concerns about a de facto partition of Sudan. The SAF controls most of the country’s central areas. Despite calls for a ceasefire, both sides appear to intent on achieving a military victory. The mounting death toll and evidence of atrocities in El-Fasher highlight the urgent need for international action to prevent further suffering.
Image: A displaced Sudanese woman who fled El Fasher [AFP]
