Fighters from Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), attacked the village of Galgani in Sennar province, resulting in the death of at least 85 people, including women and children. The RSF fighters looted, burned houses, and opened fire on unarmed residents after attempts to abduct and sexually assault women were resisted. More than 150 villagers were wounded in the attack.
This latest atrocity is part of the ongoing 18-month devastating conflict in Sudan, which began in April last year. The RSF has been accused of massacres, rapes, and other violations across the country. The attack in Galgani involved hundreds of RSF fighters storming the village, followed by a retreat and then a return with heavy weapons. Bodies were left in the streets, and residents were unable to retrieve them due to the presence of RSF fighters.
Efforts to resume peace talks between the military and the RSF have been led by the United States, with meetings boycotted by the military. The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and pushed the country to the brink of famine. Atrocities, including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings, have been reported, amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Sudan’s war has caused the world’s largest displacement crisis, with over 10.7 million people forced to flee their homes since fighting began, and over 2 million seeking refuge in neighboring countries. The conflict has also led to famine in certain areas, highlighting the urgent need for a peaceful resolution and humanitarian assistance.
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