Doha: United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, warned that serious violations committed against civilians in Sudan by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), including attacks on civilian infrastructure, violence, and extrajudicial killings, may amount to war crimes.

According to Qatar News Agency, Turk emphasized during a press conference at Port Sudan airport that the spirit of the Sudanese people in their struggle for peace, justice, and freedom remains unbroken despite the ongoing violence targeting civilians over nearly three years. He called for an immediate end to the violence and urged for the protection of civilians.

Turk underscored the significant role of youth, volunteers, and civil society organizations in providing humanitarian assistance and legal support to victims of these violations. He expressed concern over the potential for a repeat of the El Fasher scenario in the cities of Kordofan, where civilians continue to experience extreme suffering.

Alarm was also raised by Turk regarding repeated drone attacks on the Merowe Dam and the electricity generation station. These attacks have resulted in power outages impacting hospitals, disrupted irrigation systems, and hindered access to clean water. He warned against further attacks on critical infrastructure.

Additionally, Turk highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian situation and food security, pointing to indicators of famine in Kadugli and the threat of famine in other areas, including Dalang.

Attention was drawn by the High Commissioner to reports of field executions and the detention of thousands of civilians by the RSF in El Fasher. He called for the release of detained civilians, efforts to locate the missing, and emphasized the importance of ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches all affected areas.