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Yale researchers allege RSF cover-up of mass killings
Satellite images analyzed by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) suggest Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) systematically disposed of tens of thousands of bodies in el-Fasher, attempting to conceal evidence of executions after capturing the city in October.
Systematic destruction of evidence
The HRL report states the RSF conducted a "multi-week campaign" to destroy proof of mass killings, with ongoing efforts to burn and bury bodies. Satellite imagery reveals clusters of disturbed earth in and around el-Fasher, indicating large-scale disposal sites. Over 80 such clusters were identified outside the city, suggesting victims were killed while attempting to flee.
International condemnation and RSF response
The RSF has faced global outrage over reports of civilian massacres during its takeover of el-Fasher, the army's last stronghold in Darfur. The United Nations labeled the conflict the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with the RSF accused of ethnically targeted violence against non-Arab populations. RSF leader Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo acknowledged "violations" by his forces but denied widespread ethnic motivations, announcing an internal investigation in response to backlash.
Humanitarian crisis deepens
Nearly 250,000 civilians remain trapped in el-Fasher, according to UN estimates, with fewer than half reaching displacement camps. Satellite data from November shows minimal civilian activity in the city since the RSF seizure, reinforcing concerns about the scale of atrocities. Aid agencies warn of severe restrictions on movement, limiting escapes from the war-torn area.
RSF consolidates power in Darfur
The paramilitary group has leveraged its control of el-Fasher to strengthen its grip on western Sudan, establishing a parallel administration in Nyala. Despite the RSF's advances, Sudan's army retains control over most of the country, with clashes persisting between the two factions. Since the war began in April 2023, over 13 million people have been displaced.
"This pattern of body disposal and destruction is ongoing," the HRL report stated, underscoring the urgency of accountability efforts.
