Khartoum: Survivors and aid workers in Sudan say that a powerful paramilitary force is detaining civilians in Darfur and demanding money from their families in exchange for release. The reports focus on areas around al Fashir in North Darfur, a city that was captured by the Rapid Support Forces after months of fighting.
Witnesses told Reuters that hundreds of people are believed to be held in makeshift detention sites created in former hospitals university buildings and even abandoned homes. Some survivors said they were beaten and threatened while being told to call relatives to send ransom payments. The reported payments range from the equivalent of about 1400 dollars to more than 17000 dollars which is far beyond what most families in the region can afford.
The Rapid Support Forces have denied the accusations. The group said that abuses may be carried out by criminals pretending to be part of the force. But aid workers and human rights groups say the pattern appears organised and widespread.
The situation in Darfur has worsened since the fall of al Fashir. Tens of thousands of people fled the city and many families have since lost contact with loved ones. The United Nations says many displaced people remain missing and there are serious concerns about famine and safety.
Amnesty International recently called for an investigation into killings assault and sexual violence earlier this year in the Zamzam displacement camp near al Fashir. The organisation said the reports show a pattern of possible war crimes.
The United Nations Human Rights Council has now approved an independent investigation into the events in Darfur including reports of ransom detentions and missing civilians. International groups say the region remains difficult to access and confirming the full scale of abuses will take time.
Humanitarian agencies warn that people trapped in the conflict face hunger lack of medical care and fear of violence. Without a ceasefire and safe access for aid organisations they say the crisis could deepen further.