(Kampala) – In a troubling escalation of violence, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) air-bombed areas in Al Fashir, North Darfur, and widespread fear among residents. The incident unfolded yesterday, March 18, when SAF aircraft bombed two locations, Althowra and Alryhat, at approximately 9:00 AM local time. None of the civilian casualties has been reported to DNHR.

Following the airstrikes, the Rapid Support Force (RSF) reportedly launched an attack on the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Nefasha, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. Tragically, two bombs thrown by RSF landed in a crowded market, causing chaos and injuring multiple individuals.

As of now, only three injuries have been confirmed by the DNHR; among the wounded is Ibrahim Omar Othman Ahmed, a 50-year-old man whose left arm sustained severe injuries, including cuts to veins, resulting in significant blood loss. Additionally, 14-year-old Muhammad Al-Amin Mubarak suffered injuries to his left arm, while 21-year-old Ahmed Abkar Ibrahim sustained injuries to his right arm.

The injured were promptly transported to the South Hospital in Al Fashir, where they are currently receiving medical treatment for their wounds. However, Ibrahim Omar Othman Ahmed’s health condition is reported to be unstable due to the severity of his injuries and his advanced age.

This alarming attack on civilian areas underscores the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the protection of vulnerable populations, including IDPs, who have already endured immense hardship. The indiscriminate nature of the assault has drawn condemnation from humanitarian organisations, who stress the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and ensuring the safety of civilians in conflict zones.

As the injured individuals receive medical care, efforts must be intensified to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the violence and to facilitate access to essential services for IDPs in the Nefasha camp and surrounding areas. Furthermore, there is a pressing need for accountability for those responsible for the attacks, with calls for a thorough investigation into the incident’s circumstances.

The international community is urged to redouble its efforts to address the root causes of conflict in Darfur and to work towards a sustainable peace that prioritises the well-being and rights of all civilians in the region. Until then, the plight of those affected by violence in North Darfur must remain a top priority for humanitarian action and advocacy efforts.