Sudanese Pro-Army Militia Accused of War Crimes Targeting Civilians

The Sudan Shield Forces, allied with the SAF, have been accused by Human Rights Watch of committing war crimes against civilians during an attack in January, resulting in multiple deaths and significant looting. Eyewitnesses reported systemic violence and racial abuse during the assault. The ongoing conflict in Sudan, exacerbated by the actions of the RSF, has led to widespread displacement and suffering among the population.

A militia allied with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), known as the Sudan Shield Forces, has been accused of committing war crimes following an attack on a village in al-Jazira state that resulted in the death of at least 26 civilians, including a child. Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that the militia deliberately targeted the village, which is home to ethnic groups such as the Tama, Bergo, and Mararit, as part of their operations against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Reports indicate that the attacking militia engaged in systematic looting of civilian property, including food and livestock, and set homes on fire. Eyewitness accounts describe armed members of the Sudan Shield Forces as launching discriminatory verbal assaults on the locals during the assault.

“Armed groups fighting alongside the Sudanese Armed Forces have carried out violent abuses against civilians in their latest offensive in Gezira state,” stated Jean-Baptiste Gallopin, a senior researcher at HRW. The organization urged Sudanese authorities to promptly investigate these reported atrocities and hold accountable those responsible, including the leaders of the Sudan Shield Forces.

Since April 2023, Sudan has faced an ongoing war, resulting in the displacement of millions and an alarming increase in human rights abuses perpetrated by both conflicting sides. Currently, more than 10 million individuals are displaced, while over 12 million face severe food insecurity. The conflict, characterized by grave violence, has reportedly claimed thousands of lives.

The RSF, which enjoys backing from the United Arab Emirates, has been accused of committing genocide and currently has control over significant regions, including Darfur. In a recent escalated attack, 433 people lost their lives in White Nile state. Sudan’s foreign ministry condemned this incident as one of the gravest atrocities committed by the RSF in recent months, drawing parallels to previous genocidal acts in other regions.

Emergency Lawyers, an organization monitoring the war, reported that the RSF continued their violent activities against unarmed civilians, including women and children in rural regions. Their report documented tragic occurrences such as field executions, enforced disappearances, and widespread looting, raising the estimated death toll to approximately 200.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, marked by severe human rights violations, particularly implicates the Sudan Shield Forces in unspeakable acts against civilians. With alarming reports from credible organizations like Human Rights Watch, there is a pressing need for investigations and accountability for the perpetrators of these atrocities. The dire humanitarian crisis continues to evolve, necessitating urgent action to protect civilians caught in this conflict.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net