The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, condemned the alarming reports of extrajudicial killings in Khartoum following its recapture by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Civilians suspected of collusion with the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been brutally executed, highlighting the urgent need for action against these human rights violations. Mr. Türk urged SAF commanders to halt arbitrary killings and take responsibility for the actions of their personnel and affiliated militias.
Recent distressing videos circulating on social media depict scenarios where armed individuals, both in uniforms and civilian attire, are seen executing civilians. Some footage asserts that these brutal acts are retaliations against RSF supporters. Particularly shocking reports have emerged from southern Khartoum’s Janoub Al Hezam area, where at least 20 civilians are believed to have been killed, including a woman.
Türk stressed the gravity of such extrajudicial killings, asserting they contravene international humanitarian law, and called for accountability for both individual perpetrators and commanders overseeing these actions. The severe crisis in Sudan stems from failed transitions to civilian governance after the fall of long-term ruler Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
At the ongoing Human Rights Council session in Geneva, Türk raised alarms about the imminent famine threats faced by over 600,000 individuals due to nearly two years of relentless conflict. Five areas, including the Zamzam displacement camp, are already experiencing famine, compelling the World Food Programme to suspend essential food operations amid escalating violence.
Additionally, a recent alert from the UN’s OCHA reported that around 250,000 individuals have fled the Al Malha area in North Darfur, intensifying an already dire humanitarian crisis. Displacement figures indicate that 8.8 million have been internally displaced, with thousands more seeking refuge beyond borders, while more than 30 million require urgent aid.
Amidst this humanitarian chaos, a hepatitis outbreak amongst displaced communities in eastern Sudan signals further health challenges, exacerbated by overcrowded conditions and limited healthcare. Mr. Türk also raised concerns regarding the increase in online hate speech and targeted incitement, calling for urgent investigations by Sudanese authorities to address these grave human rights violations.
The UN rights chief has condemned extrajudicial killings following the recapture of Khartoum by SAF. Over 600,000 people face starvation, with reports of mass killings and serious humanitarian crises highlighted. The call for accountability is urgent as Sudan experiences catastrophic conditions, including disease outbreaks and significant displacement among millions.
In summary, the crisis in Sudan has escalated alarmingly, with the UN rights chief condemning extrajudicial killings in Khartoum. The ongoing violence has led to massive displacement, food insecurity, and health crises, with an urgent call for accountability and humanitarian assistance. The international community must heed these warnings and work towards a peaceful resolution amidst the engulfing turmoil.
Original Source: news.un.org
