Resistance Committees report civilians’ murder during RSF armed robberies in Central Sudan

February 17, 2024 (WAD MADANI)– Resistance Committees in Wad Madani, the capital of Al-Jazirah state, claim civilians were killed in villages across the region during raids by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amidst an ongoing communications and internet blackout.

The committees, representing local neighbourhoods, issued a statement on Saturday alleging RSF units attacked villages around the towns of Hasahisa and Haj Abdallah, resulting in an unknown number of fatalities. They stressed the violent looting assaults have intensified since the internet blackout began 11 days ago, allowing the RSF to target civilians with impunity.

According to the statement, villages targeted include Wad al-Bilila and Tabat near Hasahisa, and Doha, Tabakha, and Shabunat near Haj Abdullah, both roughly 45 kilometers from Wad Madani. Last week, Hasahisa’s Resistance Committees reported at least six civilians killed in Wad al-Bilila by an RSF unit attempting an armed robbery.

The RFS elements looted civilians’ homes, markets, public facilities and WFP warehouses following the capture of Al-Jazirah state without armed resistance following the withdrawal of the army on December 18.

Earlier reports indicated that RSF stationed near Sinnar State withdrew to villages south of Wad Madani following heavy aerial bombardment by the Sudanese army. The RSF had captured Wad Madani in December, later expanding south.

The Sudanese army reportedly plans to retake the city through a multi-pronged attack, including axes from the west, east, and south.

(ST)