War in Sudan: Reports of summary executions continue to emerge, and "terror" spreads

The ongoing conflict and insecurity in Sudan continue to force people to flee their homes in search of safety

Since April last year, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been locked in a brutal power struggle. The conflict has displaced more than 11 million people, some 2.9 million of whom have been forced to flee to neighbouring countries as refugees. The combined effects of war, climate change and disasters have destroyed the livelihoods of countless people and plunged Sudan into a severe famine crisis.

September offensive

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that the Sudanese Armed Forces launched their latest offensive on 25 September in an attempt to recapture key areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), in particular the strategic entry point to the capital, Khartoum, the Halfaya Bridge. Air strikes and shelling have killed and injured dozens of civilians and caused severe damage to vital infrastructure.

Nuyz warned that the escalation of violence in Khartoum is reminiscent of the "horrific scenario" of the early days of the conflict last April, and could lead to a large number of civilian casualties, serious human rights violations and mass displacement.

Summary execution

In particular, Nuis noted that as many as 70 young men have been summarily executed in recent days. Videos circulating on social media showed six men executed on suspicion of being associated with or collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces. Nuyz strongly condemned the moves, saying they violated all human rights norms and standards.

He called on all parties to the conflict to abide by the provisions of international humanitarian law and human rights law to protect civilians from arbitrary executions and violence, and called for an independent investigation to hold those responsible accountable and to put an immediate end to impunity.

"Even in war, basic rules must be followed," Nuis said. ”