At least 53 civilians were killed and over 60 injured by the Rapid Support Forces militia (RSF) between 5 and 8 October, according to reports. The UN human rights office (OHCHR) noted that preliminary information indicates the actual number of casualties in the last government-controlled city in North Darfur might be higher.
‘Endless and wanton disregard’
“I am appalled by the RSF’s endless and wanton disregard for civilian life,” said Mr. Türk. The militia has been battling its former military government allies for control of Sudan since April 2023. The UN rights chief stated that despite repeated calls for the protection of civilians, the RSF continues to kill, injure, and displace civilians, attacking civilian objects such as IDP shelters, hospitals, and mosques, in total disregard of international law. He emphasized that this must end.
OHCHR reported that at least 46 civilians were killed in artillery and drone strikes in the Abu Shouk and Daraja Oula neighborhoods, including the Abu Shouk IDP camp. This includes at least 14 civilians who died during attacks on 5 and 7 October on the Saudi Hospital, the last major functioning health care facility in North Darfur. The hospital, already operating at reduced capacity, sustained further damage in these attacks.
Summary executions
At least seven other civilians were reportedly summarily executed during home-to-home searches in RSF ground attacks, OHCHR reported. Initial information suggests these killings may have been ethnically motivated, targeting members of the Zaghawa community.
“I urge the RSF – and all parties to the conflict – to draw lessons from this week’s conviction of Ali Kushayb by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur,” said Mr. Türk. The former Janjaweed commander was found guilty of war crimes on 27 counts earlier this week. The RSF reportedly evolved from the Janjaweed militias and its leadership beginning in 2013.
The High Commissioner reiterated his call for UN Member States with direct influence to take urgent measures to protect civilians and prevent further atrocities in El Fasher and across Darfur.
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