Violence and conflict in Sudan’s West Darfur have led to a surge of people fleeing to neighboring Chad, with many reporting ethnically-driven killings at the hands of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied Arab militias.
The recent surge in killings occurred as the RSF took over the main army base in the state capital, El Geneina. Refugees crossing into Chad have recounted witnessing targeted killings of the Masalit ethnic group, attacks on homes, and the execution of civilians by RSF forces and Arab militias.
Recent months have seen a sharp increase in violence and displacement in the region, with military factions at war since April. The current wave of violence has led to mass displacement of the population, with reports of over 500,000 people crossing into Chad from West Darfur.
Several refugees who fled the violence have provided harrowing firsthand accounts, describing scenes of execution, shelling, and widespread violence against civilians. Refugees have reported incidents of men being executed based on their ethnicity, and forced labor imposed by the RSF forces.
The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have expressed grave concern over the situation, with a major humanitarian crisis unfolding. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported that more than six million people have been displaced by the conflict in Sudan, with over 500,000 fleeing to Chad.
Efforts to secure a ceasefire and facilitate aid deliveries have so far failed, leaving the civilian population vulnerable to ongoing violence, displacement, and humanitarian crisis.
The reports and images emerging from the region have been described as “sickening” by senior U.N. officials for Darfur. Urgent appeals have been made for the protection of civilians and unfettered humanitarian access.
The continued violence and displacement in West Darfur underscore the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict and for international efforts to provide protection and assistance to the affected population.