Sudan: Humanitarian impact of Armed Violence in Aj Jazirah - Flash Update No. 01 (As of 28 October 2024)

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scores of civilians have been killed or injured and an estimated 46,700 people have fled to Gedaref, Kassala and River Nile states following a wave of armed violence and attacks in eastern Aj Jazirah State over the past week.

• Preliminary reports indicate gross human rights violations and widespread looting of markets, homes, and torching farms.

• The urgent needs of the affected and displaced people include shelter, food, health care, and protection services.

• The United Nations and humanitarian partners are mobilizing to assist the people affected and displaced by the violence.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

Initial field reports indicate that between 20 and 25 October the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a major attack across eastern Aj Jazirah. Armed men reportedly shot at civilians indiscriminately and committed acts of sexual violence against women and girls, along with widespread looting of markets, homes, and torching farms, leading to widespread devastation. Residents from at least 30 villages and towns were reportedly subjected to physical assaults, humiliation, and threats resulting in thousands of civilians fleeing their homes for safety. Those who remain face severe threats, including potential sexual assault and loss of life, while many wounded individuals urgently need medical treatment. The overall number of civilian casualties from these attacks is yet to be established.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) field teams estimate that between 20-27 October about 46,700 people (9,332 families) were displaced from Tamboul and surrounding villages in Sharg Aj Jazirah and Um Algura localities, Aj Jazirah State. The displaced people sought safety, protection and shelter mainly in Al Faw, Al Butanah, and Madeinat Al Gedaref localities in Gedaref; Halfa Aj Jadeedah, Reifi Khashm Elgirba, and Reifi Nahr Atbara localities in Kassala, as well as various localities in River Nile State. Displacement continues to be reported as families seek safety in other locations, including those outside of Aj Jazirah State, amid reports that some are facing challenges to flee from affected areas due to insecurity. Some elderly people were reportedly left behind and may face the risk of hunger. Aid agencies are following up on reports that more people might be on the move seeking safety, protection and access to assistance.