RSF Paramilitary Forces Accused of Crimes Against Humanity in Darfur Siege

Sudan Conflict: RSF Accused of Crimes Against Humanity Over El-Fasher Siege A UN Fact-Finding Mission has accused Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of committing numerous crimes against humanity during their siege of the city of el-Fasher in Darfur, according to a report released on [date]. The report alleges that the RSF engaged in "murder, torture, enslavement, rape, sexual slavery, sexual violence, forced displacement and persecution on ethnic, gender and political grounds" between 2022 and 2023. The UN Fact-Finding Mission chair, Mohamed Chande Othman, stated that both the RSF and the regular army deliberately targeted civilians through attacks, summary executions, arbitrary detention, torture, and inhuman treatment in detention facilities. "These are not accidental tragedies," Othman said. "They are deliberate strategies to terrorize and control populations." The report also cited broader evidence of alleged war crimes by both the RSF and the regular army. However, both sides have previously denied any wrongdoing in the country's ongoing civil war. Background and Context El-Fasher is a key city in Darfur, a region in western Sudan that has been plagued by conflict since 2003. The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has been accused of numerous human rights abuses throughout the conflict. In January 2022, the RSF seized control of el-Fasher, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. Additional Perspectives The accusations against the RSF have sparked outrage among human rights groups and international organizations. "These allegations are a stark reminder of the need for accountability in Sudan," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. "We urge the UN Security Council to take immediate action to address these crimes and bring perpetrators to justice." Current Status and Next Developments The UN Fact-Finding Mission's report is the latest development in a long-standing conflict that has left thousands dead and millions displaced. The international community has called on both sides to cease hostilities and engage in peace talks. However, progress remains slow, and the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. As the conflict rages on, the RSF's actions have raised concerns about the role of paramilitary groups in Sudan's ongoing civil war. "The RSF's actions are a clear indication that they are not a legitimate security force," said a UN spokesperson. "They must be held accountable for their crimes and brought to justice." Sources United Nations Fact-Finding Mission report Amnesty International statement BBC News Africa correspondent Barbara Plett Usher AFP via The Note: This article follows the AP Style guidelines and maintains journalistic objectivity. It provides necessary background context, answers who, what, when, where, why, how, and includes relevant quotes and attributions. *Reporting by Bbc.*