RSF accused of killing 18 in two-day assault on Al Jazirah area

May 21, 2024 (WAD MADANI) – A group affiliated with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) carried out a second day of deadly attacks in the area of Takina, Kamleen locality, Al Jazirah state, killing at least 18 people and injuring many more.

Residents of the central Sudan state regularly report widespread violations including killings, arrests, forced displacement, and looting. Further, the RSF, which has controlled the state since December 2023, has been accused of terrorizing local communities and exploiting communication blackouts to their advantage.

Musab Takina, a resident of Takina, recounted the events to Sudan Tribune, stating that the violence began on Monday when RSF forces arrived searching for fuel. Unable to find any, they opened fire on civilians, killing 11.

The following day, the RSF returned with reinforcements, using heavy weaponry against residential areas and killing an additional seven people.

Musab denies the RSF’s claims that locals were armed with military-grade weapons, stating that any firearms used were personal and for self-defence.

As a result of the violence, over 30,000 residents have been forced to flee.

In a released audio recording, RSF commander in Al Jazirah state, Abu Aqla Keikel, claimed he was responding to reports of troublemakers but was met with heavy fire.

However, the RSF has consistently denied responsibility for the violence, blaming unidentified troublemakers, Islamist brigades, and security agencies for committing crimes in their name.

(ST)