In brief
The Emergency Lawyers group reports on alarming human rights violations by the Sudanese army, detailing cases of torture and deaths of detainees as the civil war escalates.
The Emergency Lawyers group, a prominent human rights organization in Sudan, has made severe allegations against the country's army and security forces, claiming they are involved in the torture and killing of detainees. In a statement shared on social media platform X, they noted the existence of what they termed "execution chambers" operated by the military. The group has recorded hundreds of arrests occurring in Khartoum, particularly after the Sudanese army successfully recaptured the city from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) earlier this year.According to the Emergency Lawyers, the "worst cases" involve captives who have been found dead with signs of torture. The ongoing civil war, which has already claimed the lives of tens of thousands over the past two years, has prompted a troubling escalation in human rights violations, the group asserts.The army did not respond to inquiries regarding these claims as of Sunday. Throughout the conflict, the Emergency Lawyers group has consistently documented atrocities committed by both the army and the RSF. Their statement outlined the grim realities faced by detainees, some of whom are randomly arrested and taken to overcrowded detention centers. Many endure prolonged detentions in appalling conditions, while others face sham trials conducted by security forces lacking basic legal standards, with some ultimately released in dire health.The issue of torture is not new in Sudan, having been prevalent during the leadership of former president Omar al-Bashir. In an independent report released by the UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan in March, similar claims were made highlighting a "widespread pattern" of torture, arbitrary detentions, and the use of sexual violence committed by both the RSF and the army.The ongoing conflict has contributed to a severe humanitarian crisis, resulting in the displacement of 12 million people and causing famine in certain regions. Medical organization Doctors Without Borders (MSF) recently indicated that the violence has led to the worst cholera outbreak the country has faced in years, with nearly 100,000 cases and 2,470 deaths recorded over the past year. The complexities of the conflict are further underscored by the entrenched interests of the two generals leading the feuding factions, highlighting the critical need for international attention and humanitarian relief.
