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Grim Discoveries as Sudanese Forces Retrace Steps in Civil Conflict

In a recently reclaimed section of Sudan, previously under control of paramilitary groups for almost two years, the scene has turned to one of tragedy. Red Crescent volunteers, donned in protective gear, removed bodies from a well in Sharg Elnil while local residents observed in silence.

Preliminary reports indicate that most of the fifteen deceased individuals had sustained gunshot wounds to the head. Additionally, some bore marks indicating they may have been alive when discarded into the well, according to Hisham Zain al-Abdin, the director of forensic medicine for Khartoum state.

Beyond the well, other remains have been uncovered scattered along roads or concealed in the basements throughout the Sharg Elnil area. Disturbingly, Zain al-Abdin noted that some victims were found bound.

“This area has witnessed numerous atrocities and horrifying events,” he remarked, reflecting on the grim circumstances.

As the conflict in Sudan enters its second year, government forces are gradually reclaiming territories that were long dominated by the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which separated from the regular military in April 2023.

Officials have reported alarming findings of killings in regions that were under RSF influence. However, the RSF has yet to issue a formal response to these allegations. Historically, they have denied widespread abuse claims, asserting that individuals within their ranks would face accountability. Conversely, the RSF has accused the government forces of their own violations, a contention the military has firmly rejected.

Local resident Hussein al-Faki, who alerted authorities about the bodies found in the well, recounted the fear that gripped the community during the RSF’s control. Despite their intentions to provide a proper burial, armed enforcers warned residents to stay away, stating that approaching the scene could result in shooting. “Their presence instilled fear in us, so we fled and abandoned the victims,” he reported.

(Reporting by Eltayeb Siddig, writing by Nafisa Eltahir; Editing by Peter Graff)

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