The top UN humanitarian official in Sudan has raised alarm over a sharp escalation of violence in a region near the capital, Khartoum, where recent attacks reportedly carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have claimed more than 120 lives.
Preliminary reports indicate that between 20 and 25 October, fighters from the paramilitary RSF launched major attacks across eastern parts of the Al Jazirah state (also spelled Gezira), indiscriminately shooting at civilians and committing sexual violence against women and girls.
"I am shocked and deeply appalled that human rights violations of the kind witnessed in Darfur last year - such as rape, targeted attacks, sexual violence, and mass killings - are being repeated in Al Jazirah state. These are atrocious crimes," said Clementine Nkweta-Salami, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, in a statement on Saturday.
"Women, children, and the most vulnerable are bearing the brunt of a conflict that has already taken far too many lives."
RSF fighters also reportedly looted markets and homes, and set farms on fire.
Residents of villages such as Safita Ghanoubab, Al Hilaliya, and Al Aziba were reportedly assaulted, humiliated and threatened, forcing many to flee for safety. Those who remain continue to face severe threats.
Denouncing the attacks, Ms. Nkweta-Salami stressed that they must be protected wherever they are.
"Attacking civilians, civilian objects, and public infrastructure is prohibited by International Humanitarian Law. It is unacceptable and must stop immediately."
