Chadian authorities arrest former RSF adviser Youssef Ezzat

November 2, 2025 (N’DJAMENA) – Chadian authorities have arrested Youssif Ezzat, the former adviser to the commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to family sources who spoke to Sudan Tribune.

Ezzat was detained on Oct. 11 in the Chadian town of Adré, where he was visiting his sick mother, the sources said. Two other people were also taken.

Chadian authorities deported Ezzat to N’Djamena without allowing him to contact his family or providing reasons for his detention, the sources said.

The family sources called on the Chadian government to release him or clarify the reasons for his arrest.

People close to the former adviser criticized the silence of RSF leaders and their failure to communicate with Chadian authorities to secure his release. Ezzat also holds Canadian citizenship.

Ezzat had reportedly travelled from the UAE to Chad, then left for Saudi Arabia before returning to N’Djamena.

Appointed as a political adviser in 2021, Ezzat became the main spokesman and diplomatic face of the RSF after the war broke out in April 2023.

RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo dismissed Ezzat from his position on July 10, 2024. Ezzat later confirmed the dismissal, which he framed as a resignation, and criticized the management of RSF deputy commander Abdel Rahim Dagalo.