The situation in South Darfur continues to deteriorate, with escalating violence and unchecked lawlessness threatening civilian lives. Below are critical incidents that highlight the gravity of the region’s security crisis.
Civilians Targeted by RSF in Santa, South Darfur
On December 7, 2024, three brothers—Saeed Abdullah Saeed Jubair, Mohammed Abdullah Saeed Jubair, and Ali Abdullah Saeed Jubair—were killed by members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Santa, 90 kilometers south of Nyala. The brothers protested a ruling by the Santa People’s Court, an RSF-affiliated tribunal established in July 2024.
One brother was fatally run over by an RSF combat vehicle, while the other two were shot. This tragic event led to widespread outrage, with citizens retaliating by burning down the court. These RSF-backed courts face mounting criticism for issuing unappealable rulings and alleged profit-driven motives.
Murder of Farmer Abdelqader Hussein Ali
On December 6, 2024, Abdelqader Hussein Ali, a 46-year-old farmer, was shot and killed by an individual wearing RSF attire in the Tabuqanqajoul area near Kass. Despite offering guavas to the attacker, Abdelqader was shot and succumbed to his injuries later that evening.
This incident reflects the unchecked violence and urgent need for improved security measures to protect civilians.
Road Ambush on Nyala-El Fasher Route
The Nyala-El Fasher road remains perilous for travelers. On December 2, 2024, armed individuals in RSF uniforms ambushed a “Tuk-tuk” near the Manawashi Administrative Unit. The attack killed Abdullah Adam Youssef, 34, and injured 25-year-old Imad “Wad Kareed.”
This ambush underscores the urgent need to secure transportation routes and protect travelers from harm.
Suspicious Death in Nierteti IDP Camp
On November 30, 2024, Sheikh Al-Tayeb Ibrahim, an imam in the Qarni area of the Nierteti IDP camp, was found hanging from a mosquito net in his home. Investigations are ongoing, leaving camp residents deeply unsettled amid widespread insecurity.
Assassination of Educator Osman Abdullah Khalil
On the same day, Professor Osman Abdullah Khalil was fatally attacked while defending property at the South Darfur Model Secondary School for Boys in Nyala. His death has deeply affected the community, further highlighting the region’s dire security challenges.
These incidents reveal the pervasive lawlessness and escalating violence in South Darfur. Civilians, community leaders, and educators are increasingly targeted, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
Local and international stakeholders must take immediate, decisive steps to restore security, uphold human rights, and deliver justice. Without action, the cycle of violence will continue to devastate the region.