Date: 31 October 2025
Introduction
Sudan is experiencing a severe humanitarian and political crisis as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) consolidate control over key areas in Darfur, especially the city of El-Fasher. This escalation has led to widespread civilian displacement, reports of extrajudicial killings, human rights violations, and international condemnation. The situation has drawn global attention as aid organizations, the United Nations (UN), and human rights groups call for immediate action to protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable.
RSF Occupation and Abu Lulu Case
The RSF, a paramilitary group with historical ties to the Janjaweed militias, has reportedly detained Abu Lulu, a key fighter accused of committing multiple killings near El-Fasher. Abu Lulu’s activities were linked to at least ten civilian deaths, verified by BBC investigations and corroborated with visual evidence from social media posts.
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TikTok has removed Abu Lulu’s account after identifying violations of the platform’s rules regarding violence and criminal activity.
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RSF released footage showing Abu Lulu in custody, which has been interpreted as an attempt to show accountability for atrocities.
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Human rights experts, however, remain skeptical of RSF’s willingness to pursue systemic justice.
Humanitarian Impact
The occupation of El-Fasher has triggered mass displacement, creating urgent humanitarian needs.
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Estimates suggest that tens of thousands of civilians have fled their homes, seeking safety in towns such as Tawila, approximately 80 km from El-Fasher.
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Humanitarian agencies warn that the scale of displacement is severely straining limited resources, including shelter, food, and medical support.
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Many displaced individuals have reported direct attacks on their communities, including shootings, torture, and other violent abuses.
Ezzeldin Hassan Musa, a survivor from El-Fasher, described witnessing killings, beatings, and terror on the streets as civilians attempted to flee RSF forces. His account underscores the extreme danger faced by ordinary people in conflict zones.
RSF Accountability Measures
While RSF announced the arrest of Abu Lulu and several other accused soldiers, experts caution that these actions may be symbolic rather than substantive. RSF’s statement emphasized adherence to legal procedures and international norms, including Geneva Convention standards, but skepticism persists.
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RSF claims that the arrests follow directives from senior leadership aimed at preventing further human rights violations.
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Videos circulated on social media depict Abu Lulu threatening, assaulting, and executing unarmed civilians, highlighting the gravity of the crimes.
Despite these arrests, the RSF continues to control significant areas of Western Darfur and parts of Kordofan, maintaining operational autonomy and influence in the region.
International Response
The UN and other global organizations have issued urgent calls for protection of civilians and accountability for RSF abuses:
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UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the WHO condemned the killings of medical personnel and patients.
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Tom Fletcher, UN humanitarian chief, emphasized that tens of thousands remain displaced, facing fear, hunger, and limited access to aid.
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The UN Security Council urged immediate investigations into extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, and sexual violence reported in the conflict zones.
Despite these appeals, RSF has denied systematic killings in hospitals, citing operational control and claims of law enforcement activities.
Historical Context of RSF and Darfur Conflict
The RSF has long been associated with the Janjaweed militias, responsible for large-scale atrocities in Darfur from 2003 to 2005. Allegations during that period included ethnic killings, mass displacement, and systematic abuse of civilian populations. Many former militia members are now integrated into RSF, perpetuating a legacy of violence and human rights violations.
Satellite imagery and independent investigations have revealed continued violence in urban areas, including reports of mass killings along streets and public spaces. The military’s partial recapture of Khartoum has intensified conflict dynamics, leaving RSF with significant control over Darfur and adjacent regions.
Regional and Global Implications
The Sudan crisis is part of a broader pattern of instability in East Africa, with implications for regional security, humanitarian aid, and migration:
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Neighboring countries face an influx of refugees fleeing Darfur.
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Aid agencies struggle with access limitations, security risks, and limited funding.
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Global media attention has prompted calls for accountability and stronger international monitoring of RSF activities.
In addition, the UN and international human rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the protection of women and children who are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence and exploitation.
Other Recent Developments
Tanzania Protests: UN called for restraint as security forces suppressed election-related protests, resulting in multiple casualties.
Japan: The government plans to employ specialists to address rising jellyfish infestations affecting coastal areas.
Somaliland Trade: DP World launched a maritime corridor connecting Jebel Ali (UAE) to Berbera (Somaliland), enhancing trade and economic connectivity in East Africa.
Conclusion
Sudan remains in crisis as RSF consolidates control over El-Fasher and other parts of Darfur. Despite the arrest of Abu Lulu, systemic violence and displacement continue. International bodies, including the UN, are calling for immediate protection of civilians and accountability for abuses. The scale of the humanitarian emergency, combined with ongoing conflict, underscores the urgent need for coordinated intervention, oversight, and sustained aid to affected populations.
This crisis reflects deep-rooted issues in Sudan’s security, governance, and military structures, highlighting the challenge of achieving stability and justice in regions historically affected by conflict.
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