Field executions have resurfaced in Sudan amid continued international and UN warnings over abuses against civilians.
The latest reports add to the growing list of alleged violations during the Sudan war. For more on the conflict and its impact, see our Sudan war coverage.
The Sudanese National Human Rights Observatory said members of the Sudanese army, working with allied armed groups, carried out field executions of civilians outside any judicial process.
The Observatory described the killings as a violation of human rights and the right to life. It called for an independent and impartial investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
The organisation published a video of the alleged incident on its account on X. It also called for authorities to hold those responsible accountable under international humanitarian and human rights law.
Sudan army accused of field executions
The reports come after previous UN warnings about alleged field executions in Khartoum and other areas controlled by Sudanese army forces and allied groups.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has also raised concerns about alleged summary executions of civilians in Khartoum. In a previous statement from the UN Human Rights Office, Türk said:
“I am utterly appalled by the credible reports of numerous incidents of summary executions of civilians in several areas of Khartoum, on apparent suspicions that they were collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces.
“I urge the commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces to take immediate measures to put an end to arbitrary deprivation of life,” said Türk.
“Extrajudicial killings are serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. Individual perpetrators, as well as those with command responsibility, must be held accountable for such unacceptable actions under international criminal law.”
The UN has repeatedly called for investigations into violations committed during the Sudan war. Türk has urged the Sudanese Armed Forces leadership to prevent further arbitrary killings and ensure accountability.
Khartoum killings raise fresh accountability concerns
Videos circulating on social media appear to show armed men, some in military uniforms and others in civilian clothing, carrying out killings of unarmed civilians.
The footage also appears to show the armed men taking civilians into the streets before killing them in public.
The claims and circumstances surrounding the footage require independent verification.
The reports add to wider concerns about abuses by forces and armed groups involved in the Sudan war.
Previous reporting has documented allegations of summary executions, arbitrary detention and other violations against civilians.
Sudan’s ruling camp faces wider tensions
The alleged killings come as political and military tensions continue to affect the authorities operating from Port Sudan.
Power struggles within Sudan’s ruling camp have deepened divisions over political influence, resources and control of key institutions.
The internal disputes have complicated efforts to address the broader security and humanitarian crisis. They have also added pressure on a political system already operating amid the continuing conflict.
Sudan war continues to put civilians at risk
The latest allegations come as Sudan’s healthcare system and humanitarian response face severe pressure.
Recent reporting on the Sudan war has highlighted the strain on medical services and the risks faced by health workers and civilians.
Human rights organisations continue to call for investigations into alleged abuses and for perpetrators to face accountability.
The UN has also stressed that international humanitarian and human rights law protects civilians during armed conflict.
The latest reports are likely to renew calls for independent investigations into alleged field executions and other violations in Sudan.
