Over 60,000 Run from Sudanese City Following Capture by Rapid Support Forces Militia, United Nations Says

Refugees fleeing violence in the region
Numerous seek to get to the town of Tawila but experience harassment, extortion and abuse from fighters along the way

According to the United Nations refugee organization, over 60,000 individuals have left the city in Sudan of el-Fasher, which was taken over by the militia RSF recently.

Reports indicate multiple executions and atrocities as RSF fighters stormed the city following an extended encirclement characterized by starvation and intense shelling.

The flow of those escaping the conflict towards the community of Tawila, about 80km (50 miles) west of el-Fasher, had accelerated in the last several days, as stated by UNHCR spokesperson.

Survivors were narrating shocking accounts of violence, including rape, and the humanitarian group was finding it difficult to locate adequate housing and nourishment for them.

All children was suffering from malnutrition, she commented.

Estimates suggest that more than 150,000 residents are still trapped in el-Fasher, which had been the army's remaining bastion in the western part of Darfur.

The RSF has denied extensive allegations that the executions in el-Fasher are based on ethnic factors and mirror a pattern of the Arab militia groups targeting non-Arab populations.

Nevertheless the paramilitary group has detained one of its fighters, Abu Lulu, who has been accused of summary executions.

The force shared video showing the militiaman's detention after identification that he was responsible for the death of numerous non-combatants in the vicinity of el-Fasher.

Digital platform has confirmed that it has suspended the channel linked to Lulu. It is not clear whether he had operated the profile in his identity.

Sudan was thrown into a civil war in April 2023 when a intense contest for control began between its military and the RSF.

It has led to a starvation emergency and claims of genocide in the Darfur area.

In excess of 150,000 people have died in the fighting throughout the country, and about 12 million have fled their residences in what the United Nations has called the most extensive humanitarian emergency.

The capture of el-Fasher solidifies the regional separation in the country, with the RSF now in control of western Sudan and much of bordering Kordofan to the southern area, and the military controlling the capital, Khartoum, central and eastern areas along the coastal region.

The two warring rivals had been allies - coming to power together in a coup in 2021 - but split over an foreign-endorsed plan to move towards civilian leadership.

Walter Wilson
Walter Wilson

A passionate slot car racing hobbyist with over 15 years of experience in track design and competitive racing.