RSF rampage in East Al-Jazirah leaves scores dead, thousands displaced

October 23, 2024 (RUFAA) – The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continued their violent retaliation campaign in East Al-Jazirah for a third day on Wednesday, leaving scores dead and thousands displaced following the defection of a key commander.

The violence escalated after Abu Aqla Kikl, the RSF commander in Al-Jazirah state, switched allegiance. The RSF launched reprisal attacks in areas previously under Kikl’s control, including Tambul, Rufaa, and surrounding villages.

“The RSF continues its assault on the locality,” resistance committees in Rufaa said in a statement. “They attacked several villages today, committing numerous crimes including killing and forced displacement.”

The statement said the RSF attacked Safita Ghunomab, killing at least eight people and forcing residents to flee.

The RSF also shelled the villages of Al-Saqia and Al-Safita, attempting to storm them. The resistance committees warned of a potential massacre as the RSF amassed troops in the area.

Residents of Al-Aziaba, Al-Aribab, and Al-Habika Al-Naqr were also forced to flee, adding to the thousands already displaced from Al-Rahad. Many are heading east towards the villages of Bint.

Since seizing control of Al-Jazirah state in December, the RSF has committed widespread abuses. Kikl had used his influence to protect the eastern regions due to social ties, shielding them from the worst of the violence.