Evidence suggests that over 500 people may have been tortured or starved to death near Khartoum, Sudan. Reports indicate that these victims are buried in a hidden mass grave.
A recent visit to a paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) base revealed a shocking detention center. Manacles were left hanging from the doors, and there were signs of torture. Former detainees spoke of horrific experiences, detailing repeated abuse at the hands of their captors.
Nearby, researchers identified a large burial site containing at least 550 unmarked graves, many of which are freshly dug and may hold multiple bodies. This site is among the largest makeshift burial grounds uncovered during Sudan’s civil war, highlighting the severity of the conflict.
Survivors from the detention center reported that many individuals died there and were believed to be buried in the vicinity. Doctors examining these survivors found clear signs of abuse and malnutrition, confirming the brutal treatment they endured.
The RSF had taken over this base, close to Garri village, to use as a command and training center after the conflict erupted nearly two years ago. Satellite imagery shows no burial sites at this location before fighting began on April 15, 2023.
This conflict has led to widespread devastation, resulting in a severe famine, the deaths of tens of thousands, and displacing over 14 million people.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) emphasized the significance of the detention center and called for independent war crime investigations. Dr. Hosham al-Shekh, who treated some of the survivors, reported that many were in such poor condition that they could not walk unassisted. Some had visible injuries indicating they were severely beaten.
Survivors described their experiences in heartbreaking detail. One man mentioned that after being beaten frequently, he could no longer straighten his legs due to his injuries.
The findings raise serious questions about the RSF’s credibility, especially following their recent political charter signed in Kenya to establish a parallel government. Satellite images confirm that graves only appeared after the war began, shedding light on the atrocities committed during this time.
Military officials have reported that detainees were found in a dire state, some with their hands and feet bound. This raises concerns about the treatment of prisoners and the overall conditions inside the detention centers.
As the world grapples with these revelations, HRW stressed the importance of securing evidence and ensuring accountability. The site remains protected by the military, but experts hope for independent access to gather further evidence.
The conflict continues to be marked by severe human rights violations, especially in regions like Darfur, where the RSF has been accused of ethnic cleansing. The International Criminal Court is investigating these abuses, collecting evidence to support justice for the victims.
As the RSF faces growing scrutiny, they have previously responded to accusations by claiming they have measures in place to prevent mistreatment of detainees. However, the evidence from the mass graves and survivor testimonies tells a different story.
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