Witnesses accuse Sudan's paramilitary of abducting children in Darfur

Allegations Against Sudan's Rapid Support Forces

Reports indicate that Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been accused of abducting children during attacks in Darfur, including the capture of the city of al-Fashir in October. Witnesses have stated that at least 56 children, ranging from a two-month-old baby to teenagers, have been abducted over several years.

In some instances, RSF fighters reportedly killed the children's parents before abducting them. In other cases, families were informed that their children would be used as slaves or for herding livestock. Witnesses to the kidnappings frequently faced threats or coercion, and some abducted children were used as leverage for ransom.

The RSF has been engaged in conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023. Both parties have been accused by rights groups of committing war crimes, including the recruitment of child soldiers. This is the first report indicating that the RSF is involved in the abduction and enslavement of children. Six witnesses described incidents involving their relatives being taken.

Attempts to verify these accounts or ascertain the number of children abducted and their current status have been unsuccessful. The RSF has not responded to requests for comment on these allegations. Previously, the RSF has denied targeting civilians and claims to have investigated fighters suspected of abuses.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions. The conflict has also led to famine and disease, contributing to what the United Nations describes as the world's largest humanitarian crisis.

Based on reporting by Africanews.