Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused both sides in Sudan’s ongoing conflict of committing war crimes, including summary executions, torture, and mutilation of bodies. The New York-based organisation made these claims on Thursday, based on its analysis of social media images.
The conflict, which began in April 2023, pits Sudan’s army, led by de facto ruler Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The war has already claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions across the country.
HRW’s investigation into social media content revealed war crimes like mass executions of at least 40 people, alongside evidence of torture and ill-treatment of 18 detainees. The analysis of 20 videos showed nine instances of mutilation of at least eight dead bodies, with perpetrators mostly dressed in military uniforms, although some appeared in civilian clothing.
The rights organisation urged both parties to issue clear orders to halt these abuses immediately and to conduct effective internal investigations. It also called for international scrutiny, including from the United Nations fact-finding mission for Sudan.
HRW’s report coincides with the visit of UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed to Port Sudan, as global efforts continue to resolve the crisis. Since the war broke out, estimates of the death toll range from tens of thousands to as high as 150,000, according to US Sudan envoy Tom Perriello. More than 10 million people have been displaced, with parts of the country now facing famine.