UN probe finds evidence of genocide in Darfur city of El-Fasher
An investigation by the United Nations into the events in El-Fasher, a significant city in Sudan's Darfur region, suggests that actions during its siege and capture may constitute genocide.
An investigation by the United Nations into the events in El-Fasher, a significant city in Sudan's Darfur region, suggests that actions during its siege and capture may constitute genocide.
The inquiry examined the takeover by Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which gained control of the city in late October following an 18-month blockade that restricted access to food, aid, and medical supplies.
The investigative report identifies tactics during the blockade and subsequent violence as indicative of a targeted campaign against specific ethnic communities. Documented abuses include killings, sexual violence, torture, enforced disappearances, and the systematic denial of humanitarian aid.
The report highlights that these acts primarily targeted the Zaghawa and Fur ethnic groups, suggesting an intent to destroy these communities partially or entirely.
The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023 as a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF. It has since evolved into a broader conflict influenced by historical ethnic tensions and local grievances.
An investigation by the United Nations into the events in El-Fasher, a significant city in Sudan's Darfur region, suggests that actions during its siege and capture may constitute genocide.
In Darfur, militias associated with the RSF have been accused of targeting non-Arab populations, reminiscent of violence from two decades ago linked to former president Omar al-Bashir.
The siege of El-Fasher created dangerous conditions for civilians, leading to extreme violence during the RSF's assault. Thousands reportedly died or went missing, with accusations that RSF forces did not differentiate between civilians and combatants.
Leadership Involvement and International Concerns
The report names senior RSF figures, including Lt Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, citing statements where the leadership acknowledged or justified aspects of the operation. While RSF officials have denied mass atrocity allegations, they have not provided clarification on potential internal accountability measures.
Foreign fighters with advanced weapons systems are mentioned, though no specific states are identified as supporters. Previous investigations have suggested external support for RSF operations, claims that have been denied by those implicated.
Recommendations and International Response
UN investigators recommend strengthening the arms embargo on Darfur, extending it nationwide, and implementing targeted sanctions against individuals suspected of serious violations. They also advocate for closer cooperation with the International Criminal Court and the establishment of an additional judicial mechanism to aid prosecutions.
The findings are expected to be a focal point in discussions at the UN Security Council. Efforts to broker a humanitarian ceasefire have not yet succeeded in stopping the conflict or alleviating civilian hardship. Human rights experts warn that without immediate preventive measures and accountability, the likelihood of further mass atrocities in Darfur remains significant.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
