Introduction
The city of El-Fasher in Sudan's western Darfur region was captured by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after an 18-month siege. This event is a significant development in Sudan's civil war, which began in April 2023 between the RSF and the regular army. The fall of El-Fasher marked the RSF's acquisition of the army's last major stronghold in Darfur. Reports of alleged mass atrocities have led to international condemnation and increased diplomatic engagement from the United States.
Accounts from Displaced Civilians
Individuals who escaped El-Fasher have provided accounts of their experiences during and after the city's capture. Abdulqadir Abdullah Ali, 62, who suffers from nerve damage due to lack of diabetes medication, described fleeing amidst intense gunfire and explosions. He alleged that RSF fighters shot at civilians, including the elderly, and drove over individuals who were still breathing.
Mohammed Abbaker Adam, a local official who had sought refuge in El-Fasher after his camp was overrun, also fled the city. He recounted seeing dead bodies along the escape route and described instances of individuals being shot. Adam further reported widespread accounts of sexual violence, stating he heard women's cries for help and their subsequent claims of rape.
Challenges of Escape
The journey for those fleeing El-Fasher was characterized by significant dangers and obstacles. A 19-year-old woman recounted being separated from another girl at an RSF checkpoint. She also described her family's arduous journey on foot with limited water, during which her grandmother died before reaching the village of Gurni.
A 15-year-old boy, traveling with his sisters, described being interrogated for hours in the sun by RSF fighters who suspected them of being soldiers. He alleged that fighters whipped them and threatened them with guns before eventually releasing him after his sister intervened.
Abdullah Adam Mohamed, a father of three young girls whose wife was killed in shelling, reported being separated from his daughters in Gurni by RSF fighters. He managed to escape a potential forced recruitment attempt and was later reunited with his children in Tur'rah.
Many displaced individuals arrived at camps, such as one near al-Dabbah, having lost their possessions. Witnesses reported that RSF fighters at checkpoints confiscated money, phones, and clothing, and demanded transfers of funds from relatives.
RSF Response to Allegations
The RSF has denied accusations of systematic abuses against civilians. Dr. Ibrahim Mukhayer, an adviser to RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, stated that allegations of looting, killings, sexual violence, or mistreatment do not reflect RSF directives, and any member found responsible would be held accountable. He also suggested that these allegations form part of a politically motivated media campaign by elements within Sudan's military administration. The RSF has circulated videos depicting officers greeting fleeing individuals, humanitarian aid delivery, and medical center reopenings.
International Involvement
The United States determined earlier this year that the RSF had committed genocide in Darfur. Both the Sudanese armed forces and their allied militias have also faced accusations of atrocities, including targeting civilians suspected of RSF support and indiscriminate shelling of residential areas. The conflict's impact has drawn attention from former US President Donald Trump, who has indicated a more direct involvement in ongoing US efforts to mediate a ceasefire.
Current Situation
Millions have been displaced by the war in Sudan. Less than half of the estimated 260,000 people in El-Fasher before its fall have been accounted for, with aid agencies suggesting many were unable to escape due to danger, detention, or financial constraints. Those who reached camps, like Abdulqadir Abdullah Ali, continue to seek official recognition and basic shelter.