Reports have emerged of forced recruitment of civilians, including young men, by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the conflict-ridden city of El Fasher. According to testimonies gathered by the Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR), dozens of young men were seized at RSF checkpoints between October 15 and 23, and subsequently forced to fight on the frontlines.
The DNHR, a human rights organization, has documented the accounts of witnesses and sources within the city, revealing that 65 young men were captured in the northern and western parts of El Fasher. These individuals were allegedly armed and sent to fight against the Sudanese army on October 23, resulting in the deaths of many. Those who attempted to escape were reportedly detained by Sudanese forces after the clashes subsided.
Families of the victims have confirmed that many of the young men had previously fled the city to escape the siege imposed by the RSF, only to be captured upon their return or while navigating checkpoints. Video footage posted online appears to corroborate these accounts, showing RSF fighters receiving groups of young civilians at checkpoints on the outskirts of the city. DNHR field monitors have verified that several individuals seen in the footage match descriptions provided by relatives of the missing.
The forced recruitment of civilians, including youth, highlights the escalating desperation and brutality of the conflict in North Darfur. The region has been plagued by violence, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. The use of forced recruitment tactics by armed groups underscores the need for increased protection of civilians and accountability for human rights abuses.
The conflict in Darfur has been ongoing for nearly two decades, with periodic escalations in violence. The recent surge in fighting has resulted in significant displacement and human suffering. The international community has called for an end to hostilities and the protection of civilians, including the prevention of forced recruitment and the use of child soldiers.
As the situation in El Fasher continues to unfold, concerns about the safety and well-being of civilians remain paramount. The need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and accountability for human rights abuses is increasingly urgent. The international community must continue to monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of civilians and an end to the violence in Darfur.