Sudan Conflict: Ethnic Violence Leaves West Darfur in Despair

Survivors and witnesses in Ardamata, West Darfur, have recounted a series of ethnically motivated attacks that unfolded earlier this month, leaving hundreds dead and injured. Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied Arab militias initiated the assaults on November 1, targeting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) military base in Ardamata town.

The violence intensified as RSF seized control on November 4, resulting in brutal attacks on civilians, predominantly from the Masalit community, and other non-Arab tribes.

Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, expressed grave concern, stating, “Civilians in West Darfur are suffering unimaginable horror every single day, paying the price yet again in this latest escalation of extreme violence.”

Witnesses revealed the grim details of civilians being executed in their homes, on the streets, and while attempting to flee. A doctor supporting victims in Ardamata reported counting 95 bodies, including men, women, and children, with chilling accounts of RSF soldiers executing individuals.

The attacks forced the displacement of people from Ardamata, including those residing in an internally displaced persons’ camp. The RSF and allied militias were accused of looting and burning civilian property, adding to the misery.

Amnesty International highlighted the urgency for accountability, emphasizing that the lack of consequences for past crimes contributes to the ongoing violence. The United Nations reported instances of sexual violence against women and girls in Ardamata.