Report on Violations Related to the Shelling of the Water Station in Abu Shouk IDP Camp – North Darfur State (El Fasher)
October 22, 2024
The Abu Shouk IDP camp in North Darfur (El Fasher) has witnessed repeated violations as a result of the ongoing conflict between the warring factions. These violations have included targeted attacks on critical civilian infrastructure and facilities. The water station, upon which the camp’s residents heavily depend, has been destroyed. Due to restricted access to information, it is sometimes difficult to precisely determine the responsible parties behind these attacks.
In this particular incident, it is believed that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) may be responsible for the airstrikes, based on eyewitness accounts and field reports.
Incident Details:
An eyewitness interviewed by the Darfur Victims support Organization reported that at approximately 12:00 PM, around 10 shells were launched and struck the Abu Shouk IDP camp.
• The first shell fell in Block 21, targeting a child-safe space established by Save the Children, which was completely destroyed, along with a Starlink communications center.
• The second shell hit Block 17, Square 6, targeting a water station, resulting in the death of citizen Shaza Ibrahim Abdullah.
Witnesses indicated that these shells were fired from the eastern side of the city.
Additionally, 8 more shells hit Blocks 27 and 28, as well as the Barcelona Station within the Abu Shouk camp, leaving several wounded. The organization attempted to obtain the names of the injured, but poor communications made it impossible.
Recommendations:
1. Immediate cessation of attacks on civilians and civilian areas:
The organization calls on the warring parties to immediately halt all attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure.
2. International investigation and accountability:
The organization demands a thorough investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to hold accountable those responsible for these crimes.
3. Ceasefire and peace negotiations:
The organization reiterates its call for all parties to the conflict to cease hostilities immediately and engage in peace negotiations that ensure the protection of civilians and the restoration of stability.
4. Lifting the siege on El Fasher:
The organization calls for the immediate lifting of the siege imposed on El Fasher since May 2024, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis and intensified the suffering of the population.
