Kathmandu: The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has said it has received credible indications that atrocities committed in the Sudanese city of El-Fasher could amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Mass Killings, Rape, and Other Abuses Reported

In a statement, the ICC Prosecutor’s Office expressed “deep concern” over reports of mass killings, sexual violence, and other grave abuses allegedly carried out in El-Fasher.

RSF Seizes El-Fasher After 18-Month Siege

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group, seized control of El-Fasher on October 26, following 18 months of siege and bombardment.
El-Fasher was the last stronghold of the Sudanese army in West Darfur.

The prolonged conflict has also triggered acute hunger, as civilians have been unable to farm, trade, or access food.

Violence Part of Wider Darfur Pattern, Says ICC

The OTP statement noted that the violence in El-Fasher is part of a broader pattern of attacks across Darfur since April 2023.
“If confirmed, these acts could constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute,” the ICC stated.

Tens of Thousands Displaced; City Cut Off

According to the United Nations, more than 65,000 people have fled El-Fasher in recent days.

-Around 5,000 people have reached Tawila

-Tens of thousands remain trapped without food, medicine, or safe exit

-Before the attack, the city had a population of approximately 260,000.

-Fears of Repeat of Genocide-Era Crimes

The RSF, which emerged from the Janjaweed militia accused of genocide in Darfur 20 years ago, has been linked to:

-Kidnappings

-Targeted executions

-Attacks on aid workers

-Sexual violence

-Looting

Communication links in the area are largely severed, complicating humanitarian response and independent verification.