More than 60,000 people have fled the Sudanese city of el-Fasher, which was captured by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) over the weekend, according to the UN refugee agency.
Reports have surfaced regarding mass executions and crimes against humanity as RSF fighters stormed the city, following an 18-month siege that left many starving and suffering from bombardment.
The exodus towards Tawila, located about 80 km (50 miles) west of el-Fasher, has spiked recently, with UNHCR representative Eujin Byun reporting horrendous stories of atrocities, including rape. The agency is struggling to provide adequate shelter and food for the fleeing population.
All children among the displaced are reportedly suffering from malnutrition, adding to the crisis. More than 150,000 individuals remain trapped in el-Fasher, the last stronghold of the army in the Darfur region.
The RSF has denied allegations that the violence is ethnically motivated, stating that they target all criminals regardless of ethnicity.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which began in April 2023 due to a power struggle between the army and RSF, has led to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis with over 150,000 deaths and 12 million people displaced.
The takeover of el-Fasher marks a significant territorial shift, with the RSF now controlling the western regions of Sudan, while the army retains power in Khartoum and other key areas.
Initially allies in a 2021 coup, the two factions have turned against each other amid failed attempts to establish civilian rule, deepening the country's division.
