Sudan Paramilitary Forces Accused of Crimes Against Humanity in Darfur Siege
A UN Fact-Finding Mission has accused Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of committing crimes against humanity during their siege of the city of el-Fasher in Darfur, including murder, torture, and rape. The report alleges that both the RSF and the regular army have deliberately targeted civilians as part of their strategies, amounting to war crimes.
According to the UN Fact-Finding Mission's report, the RSF has allegedly committed numerous crimes against humanity during the siege of el-Fasher, including murder, torture, enslavement, rape, sexual slavery, sexual violence, forced displacement, and persecution on ethnic, gender, and political grounds. The report also cited broader evidence of alleged war crimes by both the RSF and the regular army.
The findings highlight the devastating impact of Sudan's ongoing civil war on civilians, with widespread human rights abuses reported by UN investigators. "The situation in Darfur is dire," said a spokesperson for the UN Fact-Finding Mission. "Civilians are being targeted and subjected to unimaginable suffering."
The RSF seized control of the Zamzam refugee camp earlier this year, displacing thousands of civilians. According to eyewitnesses, the RSF has been using excessive force against civilians, including women and children.
Both the RSF and the regular army have previously denied any wrongdoing. However, the UN Fact-Finding Mission's report provides evidence of alleged war crimes by both sides. The report notes that the RSF has been using tactics such as aerial bombardment and artillery strikes to target civilian areas.
The situation in Darfur is complex, with multiple factions vying for control. The RSF is led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, a powerful figure in Sudanese politics. However, his forces have been accused of human rights abuses in the past.
The UN Fact-Finding Mission's report is part of a broader effort to hold those responsible for war crimes accountable. "We will continue to investigate and document alleged war crimes," said a spokesperson for the mission. "Those responsible must be held accountable."
As the conflict continues, civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence. The UN estimates that over 1 million people have been displaced in Darfur since the conflict began. The situation is dire, with widespread famine and disease reported.
The international community has condemned the alleged war crimes committed by the RSF. "We call on all parties to respect human rights and international law," said a spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General. "Those responsible for war crimes must be held accountable."
In conclusion, the UN Fact-Finding Mission's report highlights the devastating impact of Sudan's ongoing civil war on civilians. The alleged war crimes committed by the RSF and the regular army are a stark reminder of the need for accountability and justice in conflict zones.
Sources:
BBC World: "Sudan conflict: RSF accused of crimes against humanity over el-Fasher siege"
BBC World: "RSF Paramilitary Forces Accused of Crimes Against Humanity in Darfur Siege"
This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and BBC World.
