At least 28 people killed in Darfur amid paramilitary unrest

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces Launch Large-Scale Assault on Misteriha Town

A major raid by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group has taken place in North Darfur State, resulting in significant loss of life and injury. According to the Sudan Doctors Network, at least 28 people have been killed and 39 injured, including 10 women. The attack also destroyed the town’s only health centre.

Medical personnel were among those targeted, with one healthcare worker detained and remaining missing. The RSF has been accused of violating humanitarian and international laws by attacking civilians.

The assault on Misteriha comes amid rising tribal tensions in Darfur, where a recent United Nations investigation found that the RSF had committed acts of genocide against non-Arab ethnic groups. The town is home to Arab tribal leader Musa Hilal, who has expressed support for Sudan’s government despite his own history of involvement with the Janjaweed militia.

The RSF was formed from the Janjaweed militia and has been sanctioned by the UN for its role in ethnic atrocities in Darfur. Emergency Lawyers reported that RSF fighters torched many houses in Misteriha, forcing residents to flee to nearby villages.

The seizure of Misteriha is likely to assert RSF control over Darfur, but it may also escalate tribal tensions in an area known for violence and war. The attack follows a similar incident four months ago when the RSF overran el-Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur, killing more than 6,000 people.

The conflict in Darfur has resulted in significant human suffering, with tens of thousands killed and 11 million displaced since the war began in April 2023. The RSF has consolidated control over much of the region, exacerbating the crisis.

Source: Al Jazeera