GENEVA - UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on Wednesday expressed alarm at reports that over 50 civilians were killed in drone strikes by parties to the conflict in Sudan over two days this week.
"These latest killings are yet another reminder of the devastating consequences on civilians of the escalating use of drone warfare in Sudan," said Türk. "They also perpetuate a pattern that we have seen time and again in this conflict of attacks on civilian objects and infrastructure, including markets, health facilities and schools."
Separate drone attacks between 15 and 16 February reportedly killed at least 57 civilians, including at least 15 children, in four states across Sudan. On 15 February, an alleged Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) drone struck the Al Safiya market in Sudari locality, North Kordofan, reportedly killing 28 civilians and injuring 13 others. The following day, in West Kordofan, an alleged SAF drone struck an Internally Displaced Persons shelter in Al Sunut, killing 26 civilians (15 children) and injuring 15 others. On the same day, in South Kordofan, alleged Rapid Support Forces (RSF) drones hit two primary schools in Dilling; casualties have not yet been determined.
Beyond Kordofan, in Sennar State, an alleged RSF drone struck the Al-Mazmoun Hospital on 15 February, reportedly killing at least three civilians and injuring at least seven others, including a medical worker. On the same day, in West Darfur, an alleged SAF drone struck a fuel store within a local market in Adikong; casualties have been reported but remain unconfirmed.
"The continued attacks by all parties on civilian objects must stop. The parties must take urgent measures to protect civilians, including by refraining from the military use of civilian objects," said Türk.
He renewed his call on both sides to stop the violence and fully embrace dialogue towards a ceasefire. He also reiterated his call on all States, particularly those with influence, to do all in their power to end the arms transfers that are fuelling the conflict and undermining the protection of civilians.
