Khartoum Under Armed Terror

Exclusive to Moatinoun

Residents in large parts of Khartoum, particularly in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), live in a constant state of fear due to rampant armed robberies and killings. One such incident occurred in the Kalakla Qatia area, where a well-known local, Abu Shahira, was killed recently after his home was repeatedly targeted by armed thieves.

Mahmoud, who has been living in RSF-controlled areas since the war broke out last year, says that nighttime armed robberies have become a common criminal activity associated with the presence of RSF militias. He told Moatinoun, "This phenomenon indicates that the RSF has completely lost control over the areas it claims to govern. We have seen a decline in their efforts to curb lawlessness as they previously asserted."

Mahmoud observed that the issue has dropped in priority, suggesting it is no longer just a matter of rogue elements or isolated incidents. Instead, it reflects a broader problem within the soldiers mentality, where weapons have become tools for quick enrichment amidst a situation where everything is seen as a spoil of war, driving their actions.

According to Moatinouns investigations, the inability of the RSF to pay their soldiers salaries has led to the surge in thefts and the sale of possessions from abandoned homes. Soldiers justify these actions as necessary.

Mahmoud continues, "However, when this turns into continuous terrorism and armed robberies, it poses a grave threat to the lives of citizens. Everyone sleeps with one eye open, constantly fearing armed visitors at night."

Wi-Fi devices are among the most coveted items for theft, followed by solar power systems, televisions, and phones. The reality is that citizens are perpetual victims of terrorism and robbery for the most trivial reasons, having been stripped of anything valuable.