A recent investigation by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has revealed a shocking surge in sexual violence in Khartoum, Sudan, amid the ongoing civil conflict. The report documents the harrowing experiences of countless women and girls who have been subjected to brutal gang rapes by members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), some as young as nine years old.
The RSF’s reign of terror has seen numerous victims abducted, tortured, and forced into sexual slavery. The violence has been so severe that some women and girls have died from their injuries, with reports of extreme brutality such as being shot after rape.
The HRW report indicates that at least 262 survivors have been identified, spanning ages from nine to 60. Emergency responders have also fallen victim to sexual violence while attempting to aid survivors. The report criticizes both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for obstructing access to emergency healthcare and attacking health workers.
In response, Sudanese government spokesperson Babikir Elamin has denied the allegations, arguing that the report is unsubstantiated and accusing the HRW of unfairly targeting the SAF. Elamin asserted that the SAF does not condone sexual violence and is committed to protecting civilians.
The HRW report underscores the urgent need for international intervention, urging the African Union and the United Nations to deploy a civilian protection force to prevent further atrocities and uphold humanitarian standards.
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