Over 60,000 Flee Sudan's City Following Capture by Rapid Support Forces Paramilitary Group, United Nations States

Displaced people escaping conflict in Sudan
Numerous are trying to reach the settlement of Tawila but face intimidation, extortion and abuse from armed men during their journey

According to the UN refugee agency, over 60,000 civilians have escaped the city in Sudan of el-Fasher, which was taken over by the militia Rapid Support Forces over the weekend.

Reports indicate multiple executions and atrocities as RSF fighters stormed the city following an extended siege featuring starvation and intense shelling.

The exodus of those escaping the fighting towards the town of Tawila, approximately 80km (50 miles) west of el-Fasher, had increased in the recent days, per United Nations refugee agency spokesperson.

Refugees were describing terrible stories of violence, including sexual violence, and the organization was having trouble to secure sufficient housing and supplies for them.

Each child was experiencing undernourishment, she commented.

It is estimated that more than 150,000 residents are still trapped in el-Fasher, which had been the army's remaining fortress in the western part of Darfur.

The Rapid Support Forces has denied extensive claims that the killings in el-Fasher are based on ethnic factors and resemble a practice of the Arab paramilitaries focusing on non-Arab communities.

Yet the paramilitary group has arrested one of its fighters, Abu Lulu, who has been charged with on-the-spot executions.

The group released footage revealing the member's apprehension subsequent to identification that he was responsible for the killing of multiple civilians near el-Fasher.

Digital platform has acknowledged that it has suspended the account connected to Lulu. Uncertainty exists whether he had managed the profile in his name.

Sudan was entered a civil war in April 2023 following a vicious power struggle began between its army and the RSF.

The conflict has led to a starvation emergency and claims of ethnic cleansing in the Darfur area.

More than 150,000 people have died in the fighting across the country, and about 12 million have left their residences in what the United Nations has called the most extensive humanitarian crisis.

The seizure of el-Fasher strengthens the regional separation in the country, with the Rapid Support Forces now in control of the western region and a large portion of neighbouring Kordofan to the southern area, and the army occupying the main city, Khartoum, central and eastern regions along the coastal region.

The opposing sides had been partners - coming to power together in a takeover in 2021 - but split over an globally supported plan to transition to civilian leadership.

Linda Williams
Linda Williams

A wellness coach and writer passionate about holistic health and personal development, sharing evidence-based strategies for a fulfilling life.