Ethnic clashes claim 11 lives, spark fears of tribal war in North Darfur
June 30, 2024 (EL FASHER) – At least 11 people were killed, and numerous livestock were stolen following bloody ethnic clashes in vast areas of North Darfur state in western Sudan.
Activist Hassan Jermis told Sudan Tribune that “Arab tribal militias attacked villages inhabited by the Zaghawa ethnic group northwest of Kutum locality in North Darfur state. The villagers resisted, resulting in the death of 11 people and injuries to four others.”
He explained that the areas subjected to daily attacks by Arab tribal militias, supported by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), include Bridek, Anka, Amrai, Donkey Baashim, Halfa, Hashaba, and Umm Sidr – collectively known as the “Dar Berry” areas and home to a branch of the Zaghawa tribe.
Jermis revealed that during these attacks, the Arab groups and RSF looted large quantities of livestock, including cows, camels, sheep, and goats, transporting them to the “Al-Zuruq” base. Additionally, they harassed women and looted weekly markets.
The deteriorating security situation in the northwestern Kutum locality comes as an extension of the violent fighting in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state. The army and its allies from armed movements have been battling the RSF since early May.
There are growing fears that the conflict will escalate into a full-blown tribal war, with African-origin tribes aligning with the armed movements and the Sudanese army, while Arab tribes support the RSF.
Jermis reported the establishment of large RSF bases in Sani Haya, Donkey Baashim, and the town of Al-Zuruq on the tri-border, leading to friction with local residents. This route serves as a key supply line for the RSF, with weapons, ammunition, and military vehicles transported from Chad via the “Al-Zuruq” base on the border with Libya and Chad. From there, the route passes through Sani Haya and Donkey Baashim before reaching Mellit, about 56 kilometres north of El Fasher.
The Sudanese army accuses the United Arab Emirates of transporting military equipment to the RSF through Chad, fuelling the year-long conflict. The UAE has consistently denied any involvement.