UN humanitarian agencies are raising urgent concerns over a sharp rise in atrocities and rights violations against civilians fleeing El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that local volunteers have documented mass executions, sexual violence, humiliation, extortion and targeted attacks following the Rapid Support Forces' capture of El Fasher last week.
Satellite imagery analysis has revealed at least two mass graves near a mosque and the former children's hospital, along with multiple body disposal sites. The UN Population Fund adds that women and girls have endured rape, abduction and other forms of extreme violence during their escape.
About 1,300 individuals with gunshot wounds have arrived in Tawila, a town 40 kilometers south of El Fasher. The International Organization for Migration estimates nearly 82,000 people have fled the city and surrounding areas since October 26.
Most displaced families are now in Tawila, where humanitarian needs far exceed available resources. Across the border in Chad, an estimated 1.4 million people from Darfur are already seeking refuge, placing additional pressure on host communities.
The UN Refugee Agency and OCHA are urging the international community to scale up support for critical sectors such as health, water, sanitation and protection. They also call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and safe, unhindered passage for aid workers and relief supplies.
As the crisis deepens, these warnings underscore the urgent need for global action to protect civilians and bolster humanitarian response efforts.
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UN humanitarians alarmed by violence against civilians in El Fasher
cgtn.com
