On January 7, 2025, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) arrested two displaced persons from Kalma IDP Camp in South Darfur. The arrests took place in Nyala Market while the men were purchasing household supplies. The victims were identified as Mutwakil Adam Khater Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of 14 children from Sector 4 of Kalma Camp, and Mubarak Hussein Abubakr, a 40-year-old resident of Sector 1. Mutwakil belongs to the Fur ethnic group, while Mubarak is a member of the Dajo ethnic group.

Eyewitnesses reported that an RSF unit stationed near the headquarters of the Sudani Telecommunications Company carried out the arrests. The unit, led by Major Hamid of the Rizeigat tribe, detained the men without filing any charges. They were held in a nearby building for two days before being transferred to Nyala Central Police Station.

Ethnic Targeting by the RSF

The arrests highlight a larger campaign by the RSF targeting ethnic groups such as the Fur, Zaghawa, and Dajo. Many individuals accused of supporting armed movements aligned with the Sudanese Armed Forces are detained without evidence. Reports indicate that detainees are often released only after paying bribes or meeting other monetary demands.

This pattern of ethnic targeting has restricted the movement of displaced persons and civilians in South Darfur. Families are finding it increasingly difficult to access essential supplies and meet basic needs.

Looting Near Kalma IDP Camp

On the same day, approximately 200 cattle belonging to the Dajo and Zaghawa tribes were stolen near the northeastern outskirts of Kalma IDP Camp. Eyewitnesses reported that the perpetrators, riding camels, carried out the theft. The affected tribes, who reside near the camp, sought help from local authorities.

Captain Abu Bakr Osman Abu Bakr, an RSF commander in Bilel, responded by launching a search operation. By January 9, 2025, the stolen cattle were recovered and returned to their owners. One suspect involved in the theft was arrested.

Displacement in Nyala

In Nyala City, large-scale displacement has been observed as families flee neighborhoods east of the city center. Many residents have relocated to southern and western areas of the city. This movement is driven by daily air raids targeting Nyala Airport and nearby neighborhoods. These attacks, conducted by Sudanese army warplanes, are linked to the frequent landing of RSF aircraft at Nyala International Airport.

Call for Accountability

The Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) condemns these actions as violations of international humanitarian law and basic human rights. The arbitrary arrests, ethnic targeting, and displacement reflect the ongoing instability in the region.

The DNHR calls for:

• An immediate end to the targeting of ethnic groups.
• Transparent investigations into these incidents.
• Stronger international oversight to protect civilians.

The DNHR emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and justice to prevent further atrocities in South Darfur.