In brief
A BBC investigation uncovered evidence that a paramilitary group systematically destroyed and occupied hospitals in El‑Fasher, a town in Sudan’s Darfur region, during a year‑long siege. Two local doctors corroborated reports of targeted attacks on health facilities, describing the loss of life and essential medical supplies. UN Human Rights chief Volker Türk called the findings “deeply disturbing,” emphasizing that such acts violate international law. The group’s civilian‑affiliated health minister, Dr Alaa Eldin Nugud, dismissed the allegations as propaganda. The story underscores continuing humanitarian crises in Darfur and raises questions about accountability for wartime attacks on healthcare.
BBC Investigation Reveals Targeted Attacks on Sudanese Hospitals
During a year‑long siege of El‑Fasher, a town in the war‑torn Darfur region, paramilitary fighters reportedly destroyed major hospitals and seized medical supplies, according to a BBC investigation.
The report cites testimonies from two local doctors who described how the fighters systematically targeted medical facilities, preventing wounded civilians from receiving treatment and causing civilian deaths.
UN Human Rights chief Volker Türk described the findings as "deeply disturbing" and highlighted that international law forbids attacks on health facilities or their staff during conflict.
In response, Dr Alaa Eldin Nugud, the health minister for the group’s civilian‑affiliated government, denied the allegations, calling them propaganda aimed at undermining the group’s legitimacy.
The BBC’s Africa correspondent, Barbara Plett Usher, spoke with the doctors, who urged international bodies to investigate and ensure accountability for the attacks. The investigation adds to mounting concerns over the conduct of armed groups in Sudan and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
