Nine Egyptians were freed from 19 months of captivity by the RSF in Sudan and returned to celebrations in Egypt. The conflict in Sudan has caused significant humanitarian issues, with widespread allegations of abuse and torture. The prisoners had been falsely accused by the RSF and transferred through multiple detention facilities before their release.
Nine Egyptians were recently freed after enduring 19 months in captivity by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). They arrived in Egypt amidst celebrations on Thursday as the Sudanese army intensified its efforts in Khartoum. Ahmed Aziz Masry expressed relief, stating, “Praise be to God. A new age begins for us today. Our life starts anew from today.” The village of Abo Shanab, situated 110 kilometers southwest of Cairo, welcomed the returning captives with jubilant celebrations.
Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since April 2023, following warfare between the army and the RSF due to disagreements over the transition to civilian governance. This conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, exemplified by significant displacement and widespread famine. A United Nations report released on Thursday highlighted a disturbing trend of arbitrary detention, torture, and mistreatment meted out to detainees by both the RSF and Sudanese army.
The freed individuals had been in Khartoum for years, engaged in importing household goods and small electric appliances. Emad Moawad shared his experience, explaining he had planned to return to Egypt once fighting erupted; however, closure of the airport delayed his departure. The RSF seized him and his comrades after 65 days. Masry recounted that they were wrongfully accused of espionage for the Egyptian intelligence service, stating that they were repeatedly misled into believing their release was imminent, only to be transferred between various prisons.
After enduring their ordeal, the captives were eventually taken to a location controlled by the RSF, which facilitated their handover to the Sudanese army. They were subsequently transported to the Egyptian embassy in Khartoum and finally returned to Cairo. This ongoing conflict has raised international tensions, with claims of foreign intervention; the RSF has accused Egypt of supporting the Sudanese army, while the army has pointed fingers at the United Arab Emirates for arming the RSF.
In conclusion, the return of the nine Egyptian captives marks a significant moment of relief amidst the ongoing tumult in Sudan. Their lengthy captivity underscores the complexities of the conflict, which has brought devastation to many in the region. International dynamics are evident, as accusations of foreign intervention complicate an already dire situation, necessitating a focus on diplomatic resolutions and humanitarian aid.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
