Fighters from Sudan’s paramilitary group reportedly went on a destructive rampage in a central village, resulting in the deaths of at least 85 individuals, including women and children, stated authorities and residents on Saturday. The event took place in Galgani, located in the central province of Sennar. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) initiated the attack in late July, with reports of indiscriminate firing on unarmed villagers who resisted attempts to abduct and assault women and girls. Over 150 villagers suffered injuries during the assault.
The RSF has faced numerous allegations of committing massacres, sexual violence, and other severe violations throughout the country since the conflict began 18 months ago. The clashes started in April last year when tensions between the military and the RSF escalated into open fighting in Khartoum and other areas. During the assault on Galgani, witnesses recounted how hundreds of RSF fighters looted and set fire to homes and public facilities in the village. The villagers initially repelled a small group of fighters, prompting a larger retaliatory attack by the RSF.
Following the violence, reports from a local medical center indicated that at least 80 bodies, including women and minors, were received by Friday. The village of Galgani was left in a state of chaos and fear, preventing residents from burying their deceased. Despite requests for comment, RSF representatives remained silent. In a separate incident in June, the RSF had attacked Singa, the provincial capital of Sinnar, causing significant damage and displacing many residents.
Efforts led by the United States to resume peace negotiations between the military and the RSF have been ongoing, with talks starting last week in Switzerland. However, the military boycotted the discussions, and the RSF’s delegation did not actively engage in the meetings. The conflict in Sudan has resulted in widespread displacement, pushing over 10.7 million individuals to flee their homes since the hostilities began. The UN and international rights groups have documented numerous war crimes and crimes against humanity, including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings. Sudan faces severe humanitarian challenges, with millions at risk of famine and ongoing violence plaguing the nation.