A Nigerian member of the UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan, Prof. Joy Ezeilo, has warned that escalating attacks are putting civilians at risk.
The mission presented its new findings on Wednesday at the General Assembly Third Committee and at a press briefing at UN Headquarters in New York. Its latest report examines expanding drone warfare, attacks on civilian infrastructure and rising repression in El Obeid, North Kordofan State.
Ezeilo said civilians continue to suffer, particularly after the devastation of El Fasher. She pointed to the destruction of electricity networks, water facilities, hospitals, schools and displacement sites. She said such attacks could affect entire communities long after the violence has ended.
The mission said El Obeid remains partially encircled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). It attributed repeated drone strikes on residential areas, schools, displacement sites and other civilian infrastructure to the RSF.Investigators also raised concerns about security forces linked to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). They documented allegations of surveillance, intimidation, arbitrary detention and torture against civilians seen as critical of the authorities.
Human rights defenders, lawyers, humanitarian workers and community leaders face growing restrictions. The mission also received allegations of sexual violence against female detainees and deaths in custody.
It warned that some of the conduct documented could amount to war crimes.
Mission Chair Mohamed Othman said the conflict is becoming more dangerous because of expanding drone warfare and external military assistance. He said the mission had identified networks across several countries that allegedly facilitated weapons transfers, logistical support and foreign military participation.
The investigators called for stronger measures against individuals and organisations contributing to serious violations in Sudan.
