More than 60,000 individuals have fled the Sudanese city of el-Fasher following its capture by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) over the weekend, according to the UN refugee agency (UNHCR). The city had been under an 18-month siege. Reports have emerged of atrocities against civilians during the RSF's advance, prompting the RSF to detain one of its own militiamen, Abu Lulu, accused of summary executions. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has led to a major humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
Civilian Displacement and Humanitarian Concerns
The UNHCR reported an increase in the flow of people fleeing el-Fasher towards Tawila, approximately 80km (50 miles) to the west. Fleeing individuals have recounted atrocities, including rape, during their journeys. UNHCR representatives have stated the agency is struggling to provide adequate shelter and food for those displaced.
RSF Actions and Allegations
Following the capture of el-Fasher, reports of mass executions and crimes against humanity surfaced. In response, the RSF detained militiaman Abu Lulu, who is accused of summary executions. The RSF released footage of his arrest. BBC Verify had identified Lulu as being responsible for the execution of multiple unarmed men near el-Fasher. TikTok has since banned an account associated with Lulu, though it remains unclear if he controlled it directly.
Broader Conflict Context
Sudan has been engaged in a civil war since April 2023, stemming from a struggle for power between the national army and the RSF. This conflict has resulted in famine conditions and claims of genocide in the western Darfur region. Over 150,000 people have died nationwide, and approximately 12 million have been displaced, leading the UN to describe it as the world's largest humanitarian crisis.
The takeover of el-Fasher has solidified a geographic division within the country. The RSF now controls western Sudan and a significant portion of neighboring Kordofan to the south, while the army maintains control of the capital, Khartoum, as well as central and eastern regions along the Red Sea. The two factions were previously allies, having collaborated in a 2021 coup, but diverged over an internationally supported plan to transition to civilian rule.