Alkheir Ismail had gone to deliver food to his relatives in the city when it fell to the Rapid Support Forces, who captured him and the others without weapons. Witnesses and aid workers corroborated similar stories, indicating that men were separated from women in nearby villages and subjected to violence.
Reports of revenge killings based on ethnicity by the Rapid Support Forces have long been a concern if they took control of al-Fashir, the final stronghold of the Sudanese military in Darfur. The UN human rights office disclosed additional testimonies estimating the execution of numerous civilians and unarmed combatants, constituting war crimes.
The RSF, celebrating their victory in al-Fashir, refuted allegations of abuse and blamed their adversaries for fabricating stories. However, videos circulating on social media showed RSF soldiers shooting unarmed individuals, prompting scrutiny.
Eyewitnesses revealed that civilians and soldiers attempted to flee on October 26 but were met with violence and detention by the RSF. Survivors recounted being separated by gender, age, or ethnicity and held for ransom.
The RSF’s capture of al-Fashir accentuated the country’s geographical disintegration following South Sudan’s secession in 2011. The RSF head vowed to protect civilians and address violations, releasing detainees in response to reports of abuse.
The RSF’s actions in al-Fashir mirrored their past conduct in other regions, drawing comparisons to previous atrocities committed by the Janjaweed militias. Allegations of genocide have prompted investigations by international bodies.
Aid workers assisting displaced individuals noted the influx of women, children, and elderly refugees in Tawila, underscoring the need for humanitarian aid. The RSF’s efforts to provide food and medical assistance to displaced persons may be an attempt to attract foreign aid.
Amidst the turmoil, stories of survival and loss emerged, shedding light on the harrowing experiences of those affected by the conflict. The plight of civilians caught in the crossfire underscored the urgent need for intervention and support.
