Heavy clashes erupt in North Darfur, civilians caught in crossfire

April 16, 2024 (EL FASHER) – Intense fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and its allied militias on one side and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the other has left at least seven dead and 45 injured near El Fasher, North Darfur.

Eyewitnesses told Sudan Tribune that fierce clashes erupting at the Mellit Gate north of El Fasher, spilling over into the Abu Shouk camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The violence resulted in casualties and property damage within the IDP camp.

North Darfur’s Health Ministry Director confirmed to Sudan Tribune that civilians were killed and 45 others injured. All of them were transported to El Fasher’s Southern Hospital.

Separately, activists accuse the RSF of attacking the Tijaniya neighbourhood northeast of El Fasher, with widespread human rights abuses forcing residents to flee.

Earlier this week, reports emerged of RSF forces backed by Arab militias attacking over 16 villages west of El Fasher. These attacks allegedly included killings, looting, and burning of villages inhabited by the Zaghawa ethnic group.

(ST)