Sudan probes gruesome video displaying severed heads

February 17, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – The Sudanese army has launched an investigation into a disturbing video circulating online, depicting individuals displaying what appear to be the severed heads of two members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The video, shared since Thursday, shows individuals in military attire celebrating with the heads, claiming they belong to RSF personnel. This incident has drawn comparisons to ISIS’s tactics of public executions and raises serious concerns about the escalation of violence in Sudan.

The Sudanese military spokesman Nabil Abdallah stated that the Sudanese Armed Forces are currently investigating the matter. Those found affiliated with our forces after the investigation will be held accountable.

“ We reaffirm our strict adherence to the laws of war and the rules of conduct. Unlike the terrorist militia’s ongoing violations, we will not deviate from these principles,” he stressed..

For his part, the RSF spokesperson condemned the video in a statement, calling it “a scene that contradicts morals, religion, and laws.” He emphasized the RSF’s adherence to human rights and urged the international community to condemn the act.

The leaders of the anti-war forces, Tagadum coalition, also denounced the incident, pointing out that it exacerbates existing tensions.

Khalid Omer Youssif said that this incident “exposes moral decay and terrorist behaviour”  While Yasir Arman asserted that it was “a scheme orchestrated by the remnants of the former regime “With the aim of sowing discord and national strife.”

Sudan’s 10-month-long civil war, sparked in April 2023 between the army and the RSF, shows no signs of abating, as leaders on both sides escalate threats of total annihilation.

(ST)