Dozens are feared dead following shelling by the Rapid Support Forces at a market in the Abu Shouk camp for displaced people in North Darfur, Sudan. The attack occurred during the holy month of Ramadan, with many casualties reported. This incident marks a continuation of violence in the region, where the RSF has previously been accused of serious atrocities.
In North Darfur, Sudan, a tragic shelling incident has occurred, leaving dozens of individuals feared dead following an attack on a crowded market at the Abu Shouk camp for displaced people. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched the assault, which lasted for approximately two hours, on a population already suffering from the ongoing conflict. The Abu Shouk camp houses over 500,000 displaced persons and has experienced another shelling incident just three days prior, indicating escalating violence in the region.
The attack unfolded at a peak shopping hour during Ramadan, a period of fasting for the primarily Muslim community. Many were preparing to break their fast, further exacerbating the tragedy of the event. Dr. Ibrahim Nadyan, a medic at the last functioning hospital in el-Fasher, reported numerous injuries resulting from the shelling, with the severity of injuries varying significantly. Tragically, the latest assault comes just after an earlier attack on Sunday that resulted in the deaths of six civilians.
As of now, the RSF has not provided any comments regarding either of the recent attacks. The ongoing war, which has persisted since April 2023, has adversely affected tens of thousands of lives, displacing millions and pushing many towards famine. Both the RSF and the army are facing allegations of committing heinous atrocities, including genocide against non-Arabic groups in Darfur. The conflict has also divided the nation geographically, with the army gaining control over the north and east, while the RSF dominates the west and parts of the south. In recent weeks, however, the army has made significant gains, reclaiming territories around Khartoum from RSF control.
The situation in North Darfur is dire, marked by repeated violent attacks against vulnerable groups within the Abu Shouk camp. The recent shelling highlights the urgent need for humanitarian intervention to protect civilians and address the escalating conflict, which threatens to worsen living conditions for millions of displaced individuals. Strong international attention and response are paramount in addressing the crisis and mitigating the human toll of ongoing hostilities in Sudan.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
