Divisions, tensions flare in Sudan’s Al Dinder as armed groups proliferate
December 24, 20234 (AL DINDER) – The city of Al Dinder in Sudan’s Sennar state is facing deep social divisions and escalating tensions fueled by the proliferation of armed groups and a controversial amnesty offered to surrender Rapid Support Forces (RSF) fighters.
At least three armed groups have emerged since the Sudanese army retook control of Al Dinder on October 23rd. While these groups claim to be protecting the area, they face accusations of looting, raising concerns about escalating violence and instability.
Adding to the unrest, a decision to grant amnesty to a group of surrendering RSF fighters has sparked outrage. The group, led by Mirghani Hafeira and Qamar al-Dawla al-Amin, surrendered to the army in Blue Nile state and arrived in Al Dinder on Monday. They are accused of committing serious crimes, including looting, murder, and rape, during the conflict.
“The reception of Mirghani Hafeira, Qamar al-Dawla al-Amin, and others by administrative, political, and security officials is a matter of deep regret and anger,” said Al-Tayeb Madawi Shiquq, head of the Shura Council of the Rufa’a tribe, in a statement. “Celebrating the return of criminals and offering them support is implicit participation in their crimes.”
Shiquq demanded that Hafeira, al-Amin, and all those involved in crimes in Al Dinder be arrested and brought to justice. He also called for an investigation into those who celebrated their return, arguing their actions were as reprehensible as those accused of collaborating with the RSF.
Residents of Al Dinder expressed their frustration and pain. “It’s agonizing to see those who displaced us from our homes being welcomed as heroes,” said Ali Suleiman, a resident of Al Dinder. “But we are powerless against them.”
Some residents have filed lawsuits against the surrendered RSF elements, accusing them of looting, theft, and occupying homes. Activist Omer Jalal filed a lawsuit against Mirghani Hafeira and others, accusing them of using his house for military purposes.
A military source told Sudan Tribune that the surrendered group was covered by the amnesty issued by army commander Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. However, the source stressed that this amnesty only applies to public rights and does not absolve them of individual responsibility. The army has encouraged those with grievances against the surrendered fighters to file criminal complaints.
The source also revealed that another RSF force of 150 men surrendered on Tuesday in Blue Nile state.
Weapons Proliferation
Eyewitnesses reported a widespread proliferation of weapons among armed groups in Al Dinder, raising fears that violence and looting will escalate. There are now four separate armed groups in the area, including the army, police, intelligence service, and another armed group known as al-Bura bin Malik.
One group, known as al-Karama, is led by the Nazir of the Rufa’a tribe, Salah al-Mansour, and operates in Al Dinder city and the village of Kamrab, a former RSF stronghold.
Witnesses said another armed group looted property and livestock from Kamrab that the RSF had stolen from villages in Al Dinder, Khartoum, and Al Jazirah state. This group is reportedly based in the village of Abu Hashim and has expanded its presence eastward.
A third armed group operates in the al-Azaza area, with its influence extending to al-Rusayris in Blue Nile state.
The situation in Al Dinder highlights the challenges facing Sudan as it attempts to transition to peace and stability. The proliferation of armed groups, coupled with tensions over amnesty for RSF fighters, threatens to destabilize the region further and exacerbate the ongoing humanitarian crisis.