On December 30, 2024, a devastating attack struck the Sudanese Church of Christ (SCOC) in Gezira State, reportedly perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). During a Christmas prayer service, congregants fled in terror, leaving at least 14 individuals seriously injured. The RSF, embroiled in conflict with the Sudan Armed Forces since April 2023, issued chilling threats to “kill all Christians” in the vicinity, escalating tensions in an already volatile environment.
Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), a UK-based human rights organization, has publicly denounced this act of violence. Mervyn Thomas, CSW’s Founder President, expressed deep concern over the escalating threats against Christians amidst ongoing hostilities in Sudan. He characterized this vulnerable minority community as historically marginalized, suffering grave abuses during conflicts like the current crisis.
A church attack in Sudan left 14 injured, with RSF soldiers threatening to kill all Christians. CSW condemned the violence, emphasizing the vulnerability of Christians in the ongoing conflict. Mervyn Thomas of CSW described the situation as alarming, calling attention to historical abuses faced by this minority community.
The attack on the Sudanese Church of Christ underscores the severe dangers faced by Christians in Sudan, particularly in Gezira State. With threats of mass violence, the fragile security for religious minorities is further endangered. As CSW calls for swift recovery for the victims, the fight against such brutal oppression continues to resonate, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and support.
The backdrop of this tragic event is the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023. The battlefield is not just divided between military factions but also targets civilian groups, particularly Christians. This atmosphere of fear and violence makes the recent attack on the SCOC church emblematic of broader, systematic persecution of religious minorities in the region. The Rapid Support Forces are notorious for their brutal tactics, intensifying the plight of already vulnerable communities.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
