Over 200 Civilians Killed in Darfur as RSF Intensifies Assaults on Displacement Camps and El Fasher

 Sudan , Published: April 14, 2025  In one of the deadliest escalations since the outbreak of Sudan’s civil war nearly two years ago, paramilitary forces have reportedly killed over 200 civilians in and around El Fasher, the last remaining stronghold of the Sudanese army in the Darfur region. Among the latest casualties are at least 56 civilians killed in Um Kadadah during a two-day assault by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who have since seized the town.

The United Nations has confirmed that brutal attacks continue at two large displacement camps—Zamzam and Abu Shouk—where thousands of internally displaced people reside. On Sunday, RSF units were reportedly razing buildings in Zamzam under the pretext of flushing out government-affiliated fighters. Tragically, all medical personnel of Relief International—who operated the last functioning clinic in Zamzam—were killed in the assault.

The RSF, which the U.S. government has accused of committing acts of genocide in Darfur, now controls most of the region as well as parts of southern Sudan. Meanwhile, the army holds the capital and northern and eastern territories, including Khartoum, which it recaptured last month.

The Yale Humanitarian Research Lab has verified widespread arson in Zamzam camp, observing destruction across central and southern sections. The UN’s humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, described the unfolding situation as “appalling and gravely alarming,” warning of catastrophic consequences for civilians caught in the crossfire.

The RSF’s coordinated ground and aerial offensive on April 11 sparked intense fighting, with initial estimates suggesting over 100 civilian deaths—more than 20 of them children. Internet blackouts enforced by RSF have hindered accurate casualty verification, but the Sudanese army claims over 70 people were killed in El Fasher alone.

Relief International, mourning the loss of nine staff members, said in a statement: “We understand this was a targeted attack on all health infrastructure in the region to prevent access to healthcare for internally displaced people. We are horrified that our clinic was among the health facilities destroyed.”

The violence has sparked renewed international concern. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who will host a 20-nation ministerial conference on Sudan in London on Tuesday, posted on social media: “Shocking reports are emerging from El Fasher, Darfur, where indiscriminate RSF attacks have killed civilians, including aid workers. This gives added urgency to Tuesday’s Sudan conference in London with international partners. All sides must commit to protection of civilians.”

The conference is expected to draw intense focus on the role of the United Arab Emirates, previously accused of backing the RSF. Sudan has formally petitioned the International Court of Justice, accusing the UAE of complicity in genocide.

Kate Ferguson, co-director of Protection Approaches, warned that the latest wave of violence may mark the beginning of a broader, systematic assault. “This is a significant escalation in violence against civilians in the North Darfur region and requires immediate diplomatic response,” she said. “It may signal the start of further genocide and crimes against humanity.”

She urged the international community to act decisively: “This is a rare opportunity to move from strong words to resolute action. It means sincerely confronting those backing atrocity crimes and forming a serious coalition ready to halt genocide, war, and famine.”

The conflict in Sudan has killed tens of thousands and displaced more than 12 million people. The International Rescue Committee has labeled it the “largest humanitarian crisis ever recorded.” As the situation deteriorates further, global leaders face mounting pressure to deliver concrete measures to safeguard civilians and restore stability in the war-torn nation.