Sudan crisis still has devastating impact on civilians: UN rights office
“We are concerned by the continuing devastating impact of the conflict in Sudan on civilians,” spokesman Jeremy Laurence told reporters in Geneva.
The Sudanese army (SAF) and its military rival, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have been locked in vicious clashes since mid-April.
Hundreds have been killed and some 1.2 million displaced. UN agencies and partners have repeatedly warned about the growing humanitarian crisis.
Deadly airstrikes in Khartoum
said Mr. Laurence at least eight people died in an airstrike on a busy livestock market in the capital, Khartoum, on Wednesday, allegedly carried out by the SAF. At least three of the victims were from the same family.
We heard that a child was killed in a separate incident that day after a gun hit his house in Al-Shajraa area, south of Khartoum.
Refugees and orphans
OHCHR has also received news of the killing of four other civilians in the capital on Monday, while at least three people from one family. with a pregnant womanwas reported killed on Sunday.
Airstrikes that day near the Sports Center in south Khartoum, hit a refugee center, reportedly killing at least 10 refugees. Furthermore, no less than 71 children have died in the orphanage in Khartoum since the conflict began due to lack of humanitarian aid, including medical supplies.
Sexual violence, online hate
Mr Laurence said the OHCHR was also concerned by reports of conflict-related sexual violence.
“Since the start of the conflict, our Office has received credible reports of 12 incidents of sexual violence related to the conflict, against at least 37 women – although the number may be higher. In at least three cases, the victims were young girls. In one case, 18 to 20 women were allegedly raped,” he said.
Growing reports of apparent disappearances and arbitrary detentions are another concern, he added, and Journalists are also in great danger now amid the rise in online hate speech and information.
OHCHR has written about a list circulating on social media accusing some journalists of being supporters of the RSF. Officials have also seen comments on Facebook calling for killing of those on the list.
Appeal to math
“We also called the High Commissioner to both sides to fight against ensure the safety of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law and international human rights law,” he said.
“They must repeat ensure that all crimes are effectively and independently investigated and those who do their duty are held accountable.”
