Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and allied groups are increasingly controlling populations affected by the conflict, subjecting civilians to widespread repression impacting nearly all aspects of life, according to UN rights experts led by Mission Chair Mohamed Chande Othman.
Movement between territories is dangerous, with civilians stopped at checkpoints, detained without due process, and accused of supporting the opposing side. This environment has reportedly forced some civilians to demonstrate loyalty or align with one side to ensure safety, freedom, and economic survival, as noted by Expert Member Joy Ngozi Ezeilo.
The Mission documented cases where families face extortion related to arbitrary arrests, with demands as high as $40,000 for the release of relatives—a sum unattainable for many amid conflict, displacement, and worsening livelihoods. Traders crossing front lines in regions such as El Fasher, El Obeid, Dilling, and Kadugli face increased risks of detention and abduction, further disrupting local economies and food access.
Particularly concerning are reports of at least 70 individuals, including humanitarian workers, arrested in El Geneina in May 2026 and still missing. Expert Member Mona Rishmawi emphasized that enforced disappearances of aid personnel hinder relief efforts and increase risks for entire communities.
Poor conditions in detention facilities also threaten lives and undermine both detainee safety and humanitarian operations.