Allegations of Concealed Killings in el-Fasher
A research team from Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) alleges that Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have engaged in efforts to conceal evidence of killings in the city of el-Fasher, including by burying and burning bodies. The RSF previously faced international scrutiny following reports of alleged executions and crimes against humanity during the capture of the city in October. Analysis of satellite images conducted by Yale's HRL suggests the RSF likely disposed of a substantial number of bodies following the seizure of el-Fasher.
HRL Report Findings
The HRL's report states that the RSF "engaged in a systematic multi-week campaign to destroy evidence of its widespread mass killings," adding that "this pattern of body disposal and destruction is ongoing." The paramilitary group has been in conflict with Sudan's regular army since April 2023, stemming from a power struggle between the two forces. The United Nations (UN) has characterized the conflict as a severe humanitarian crisis.
After an 18-month siege, the RSF captured el-Fasher, a development that led to the army's withdrawal from its last significant position in the Darfur region. The UN, among other international entities, has raised accusations of civilian killings by the RSF during the capture of el-Fasher.
Further analysis of satellite imagery identified clusters in multiple locations that changed in size during the weeks following the fall of el-Fasher, according to the HRL. The HRL suggests this indicates ongoing efforts by the RSF to remove evidence of killings. The imagery also depicts over 80 clusters situated outside the city, which the HRL interprets as evidence of killings by the RSF targeting individuals attempting to flee.
RSF Response and Current Situation
Satellite evidence from November suggests limited civilian activity in the city since its seizure. RSF leader Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo announced an investigation into what he termed "violations" by his soldiers during the capture of el-Fasher, following international scrutiny. The group has consistently denied allegations that killings in the city are ethnically motivated or reflect a pattern of Arab paramilitaries targeting non-Arab populations.
The latest HRL report follows prior warnings from aid agencies concerning the limited number of civilians who successfully evacuated el-Fasher after the RSF's takeover. The UN estimates approximately 250,000 individuals remained in the city, with fewer than half of that figure believed to have reached external camps for displaced persons.
The RSF has utilized the capture of el-Fasher to strengthen its position in western Sudan and has established an alternative administrative structure in Nyala, Darfur. Sudan's army maintains control over the majority of the country, with ongoing engagements between the two forces. Over 13 million people are estimated to have been displaced since the conflict commenced in April 2023.