Witnessing Atrocities: The Struggle for Khartoum in Sudan’s Civil War

The BBC has reported on the ongoing civil war in Sudan, particularly focusing on the violence in Khartoum. The Sudanese military is reclaiming territory from the RSF, which has led to extensive destruction. Eyewitness accounts highlight atrocities committed by the RSF against civilians, revealing the tragic impact of the conflict. Despite military advancements, suffering persists among the population as many confront the aftermath of war.

The BBC has reported on the ongoing violence and atrocities in Khartoum, where the civil war has raged for nearly two years. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) initially controlled the city; however, the Sudanese military is reclaiming territory, which could be a significant military success.

In recent weeks, the army has nearly surrounded Khartoum, having pushed north from the southern regions. This strategic maneuver has allowed them to reclaim several districts, forcing remaining RSF fighters into the city center, while vast portions of previously held areas now lie in ruins.

Upon driving through affected areas, the BBC team witnessed the utter devastation, with entire blocks characterized by destruction and neglected debris. Reports from residents reveal instances of violence perpetrated by retreating RSF fighters against civilians, amplifying the chaos.

One resident, Intisar Adam Suleiman, recounts the tragic story of her sons, who were shot by RSF soldiers. While one son managed to survive with a bullet wound, his friend suffered fatal injuries, demonstrating the brutal reality faced by civilians caught in the conflict.

Asma Mubarak Abdel Karim described harrowing encounters where women were attacked by RSF soldiers, further illustrating the atrocities committed during this civil conflict. A spokesperson for the RSF, however, denied reports of major crimes attributed to the group, claiming they had maintained control without significant incidents.

The military’s larger strategy includes efforts to force RSF fighters to surrender, through the distribution of messages urging them to abandon their positions. Although some locations like Khartoum North have witnessed a decrease in violence, concerns remain, as many areas have experienced extensive looting and destruction.

Individuals displaced by the fighting, such as Hussein Abbas, express deep emotional pain over the devastation wrought by the war. Survivors are returning to assess the damage, yet the impact of the conflict continues to be felt severely among the populace.

The battle for Khartoum exemplifies the horrific consequences of the ongoing civil war in Sudan. With civilians bearing the brunt of violence, testimonies reveal tragic personal losses and communal suffering. The military’s campaign to reclaim the capital, while significant, does not signify an end to the enduring conflict or its associated atrocities. The situation remains dire for Sudanese citizens who confront an uncertain future amid destruction and trauma.

Original Source: www.bbc.com