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Over three days, more than 200 unarmed civilians were killed in a series of attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in northern White Nile state, Sudan, according to a local rights group. The Emergency Lawyers Network reported that the attacks occurred in the villages of al-Kadaris and al-Khelwat, areas with no military presence. The RSF forces were accused of executing civilians, kidnapping, carrying out enforced disappearances, and looting properties.
The RSF, once allied with Sudan’s military, has yet to comment on the allegations. The paramilitary group and the military were partners in a 2021 coup but fell out over a plan to transition towards civilian rule. Since the conflict erupted in April 2023, the RSF has waged brutal battles with the army.
In a significant development, senior RSF leaders are in Kenya, where they are expected to announce plans to form their own government in the regions they control, which include Darfur and parts of Kordofan. Analysts warn that this move could deepen the rift in Sudan, already shattered by violence and political instability.
The ongoing conflict has forced over 12 million people to flee their homes, and tens of thousands of civilians have lost their lives in the brutal fighting. Both the RSF and the military have been accused of committing atrocities against civilians.
The war stems from a power struggle between Sudan’s army chief, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and his former deputy-turned-rival, Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, leader of the RSF. While the army has recently regained control of key areas, including parts of the capital, Khartoum, the RSF continues to hold territory in the west and has made plans to form a rival government.
Gen Burhan, currently based in Port Sudan, has rejected the RSF’s moves and vows to reclaim control of Khartoum. The conflict shows no signs of abating, as both sides remain locked in a deadly battle for power.
