The Sudanese Journalists Union has expressed strong condemnation towards the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) following the recent seizure of the residence of Ashraf Omer Ibrahim, a respected journalist based in Nyala, South Darfur. This incident marks yet another episode in a disturbing trend of assaults on civilians and efforts to suppress dissent.
Ibrahim, who serves as a correspondent for South Darfur Radio and Television and is also a presenter on the Al-Zarqa satellite channel, is believed to have been targeted due to his perceived allegiance to the Sudanese army and the former National Congress Party, which governed before the current regime. The directive for the seizure came from Abdel Rahim Daglo, the RSF’s deputy commander.
In their statement, the Union denounced the action as “an unacceptable infringement on freedom of expression and a flagrant violation of human rights.” They emphasized that the RSF’s actions reveal a deliberate intention to silence any dissenting voices.
The RSF’s actions against Ibrahim highlight a broader campaign to confiscate properties belonging to individuals viewed as adversaries. Since late last year, this paramilitary group has maintained control over South Darfur and its capital, Nyala.
“This seizure of homes and property from journalists and civilians serves as a tactic of intimidation,” the Union stated. “The RSF is fostering an environment of fear that deters people from speaking out against their regime.”
The Union has called for the prompt return of Ibrahim’s home and urged the international community to exert pressure on the RSF to cease its repressive activities.
“Such violations will only escalate chaos and suffering,” the statement cautioned. “It is the civilian population that invariably bears the brunt of the RSF’s cruelty.”
The incident has provoked a strong backlash, with various human rights organizations and press freedom advocates joining in the condemnation. Many express concern that the RSF’s aggressive tactics are steering Sudan toward deeper authoritarianism and undermining any prospects for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the nation.