Omdurman mosque fire sparks controversy: Sudanese army blames RSF

March 20, 2024 (OMDURMAN) — A massive fire heavily damaged the mosque and dome of the late Sufi leader Sheikh Hassan Al-Fatih Qaribullah in Omdurman’s Wad Nubawi area. The fire also affected the site housing the Sheikh’s grave.

In a statement to Sudan Tribune, Sheikh Hassan al-Fateh’s son refuted claims that his father’s grave was exhumed. He clarified that the fire caused internal structural damage and an explosion inside the dome, exposing the wooden grave cover. He added that despite knowing the mosque had been attacked, they remained silent and prevented filming to avoid stoking tensions without clear information.

Leaked video clips by Sudanese army soldiers showed the destruction and accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of being responsible. The videos sparked social media controversy, with accusations flying between the army and RSF supporters. Some blamed extremist groups, citing Sudan’s security vacuum, while others pointed to the RSF’s past control of Wad Nubawi.

A prominent RSF leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, categorically denied involvement. He blamed the fire on “Takfiris and ISIS”, who, according to him, are fighting alongside the army. He further claimed the army recently sought help from extremist militias who are now active in Omdurman.

The RSF leader emphasized their withdrawal from Wad Nubawi on March 3rd and asserted that they protected mosques throughout their presence, including the one in question. He concluded by urging the international community to address the growing threat of terrorism in Sudan, a danger to the region and the world.

(ST)