This is according to the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Office (OHCHR).

The agency said it had received reports of civilians being executed while attempting to flee what was once the last Sudanese military stronghold, with indications of ethnic targeting. Former combatants who had surrendered were also reportedly killed, an act prohibited under international humanitarian law.

“The risk of further large-scale, ethnically motivated violations and atrocities in El Fasher is mounting by the day,” warned UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, calling for “urgent and concrete action” to protect civilians and ensure safe passage for those seeking refuge.

The situation in Sudan has worsened since conflict erupted in 2023, displacing over 12 million people and leaving more than 24 million in need of food assistance.

According to OHCHR, hundreds of people have been detained while trying to flee El Fasher, including a journalist, while heavy artillery fire last week killed several civilians and humanitarian volunteers.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the situation as a “terrible escalation”, urging the international community to address “external interference” in the conflict and press warring parties to agree to a ceasefire.

UN Humanitarian Co-ordinator for Sudan, Denise Brown, said civilians escaping the city are often held for ransom by militias. Many arrive “dehydrated, malnourished, some injured and all traumatised.” Reports indicate that five men were executed by the RSF for attempting to deliver food supplies into the blockaded city.

Brown added that funding shortages have severely hampered relief efforts, with only 27% of the required resources available. Nearly 130 aid workers have been killed since April 2023, underscoring the risks faced by those delivering humanitarian assistance.

–UN/ChannelAfrica–