El-Fasher in Turmoil: RSF Assault Leaves City Devastated

The Sudanese city of El-Fasher has become a scene of devastation and despair following the takeover by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on October 26, 2023. As conflict escalates between the RSF and Sudan’s military, the city has witnessed a surge in violence, marked by widespread atrocities, executions, and a communications blackout that isolates El-Fasher from the outside world.

When nurse Asmaa returned to her hometown, she found it nearly unrecognizable. Neighbourhoods that once buzzed with life are now filled with the dead. “I do not know if they are detained or dead. I just keep looking in shelters, schools, everywhere,” she recounted, searching for her missing family and friends. Her own home lies in ruins, and she described the city as “terrifying and full of bodies.”

Satellite imagery and accounts from residents and humanitarian organizations reveal a dire situation. The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that more than 106,000 people have fled El-Fasher since the RSF’s takeover, while between 70,000 and 100,000 remain trapped. Eyewitness reports indicate that the streets are littered with the remains of those who have died, and burial pits are being used to hide evidence of killings.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Conditions in El-Fasher have been described as “beyond horrific” by the WFP, which reported on burned bodies, abandoned markets, and roads strewn with mines. A volunteer with the Red Crescent, who spoke anonymously, described entering the city on December 4 and finding “bodies scattered” across the streets. New corpses reportedly appear daily, as the RSF continues to control the area.

Recent satellite analysis from Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) identified “piles of objects consistent with human bodies” being moved and buried. Streets that were once bustling with activity are now eerily quiet, with satellite images revealing no visible activity at key market areas in mid-December.

The humanitarian crisis is compounded by severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. One of the few groups allowed access, the Malam Darfur Peace and Development Organisation, delivered food and blankets on December 2, but reported dire conditions across the city.

Trapped Residents Face Harrowing Choices

Reports of ongoing kidnappings have emerged, with Doctors Without Borders (MSF) confirming numerous incidents inside El-Fasher and along escape routes. “The RSF wants to keep people inside,” stated MSF emergency coordinator Myriam Laaroussi. Those who attempt to flee often face violence, with families paying ransoms, men tortured or shot, and parents killed, leaving children unaccompanied.

In response to accusations of violence and human rights abuses, the RSF has dismissed claims as “fabricated narratives.” They have attempted to project a different image of governance in El-Fasher, promoting supposed reconstruction efforts and urging residents to return to a “normal” life.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced, echoing the horrors of past atrocities committed in Darfur. The situation in El-Fasher serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and international attention.

As the city grapples with the aftermath of violence and isolation, the resilience of its people continues to be tested.