Nine Egyptians, held for 19 months by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, returned home to celebrations. Their detention occurred amid ongoing conflict in Sudan, resulting in humanitarian crises. A UN report highlights alarming trends of abuse. The captives shared harrowing experiences of alleged false accusations and arbitrary detainment, leading to their eventual release by the Sudanese army.
On Thursday, nine Egyptians who had been detained for 19 months by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces arrived home to jubilant celebrations in Egypt. Ahmed Aziz Masry, one of the freed individuals, expressed gratitude upon his return, stating, “Praise be to God. A new age begins for us today. Our life starts anew from today.” The welcoming took place in Abo Shanab village, located 110 kilometers southwest of Cairo, where seven of the captives originated.
The turmoil in Sudan began in April 2023, following escalating conflicts between the army and RSF, resulting in a humanitarian crisis marked by mass displacement and hunger. A recent UN report detailed alarming trends of arbitrary detention, torture, and ill-treatment executed by both the RSF and the Sudanese army.
The Egyptian captives had been residing in Khartoum, engaged in the importation of household items and electrical appliances. Emad Moawad recounted his experience, noting he had booked a flight to leave Sudan as the conflict escalated, only for the airport to close. “Sixty-five days later, the RSF raided our house and held us captive for over 19 months,” Moawad stated.
Masry shared that the RSF falsely accused them of espionage concerning the Egyptian intelligence. He described the lengthy ordeal, indicating, “Every few months, they would tell us they are releasing us but then put a blindfold on our heads and send us to another prison.” Ultimately, they were transferred to the Sudanese army, who brought them to the Egyptian embassy, leading to their repatriation to Cairo.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, diverse international entities are becoming involved, with the RSF alleging Egyptian support for the army, while the army points fingers at the United Arab Emirates for allegedly providing arms to the RSF.
The return of the nine Egyptians marks a significant moment amid Sudan’s ongoing conflict, highlighting the perils faced by civilians amidst political turmoil. Their experiences showcase the severity of detention and mistreatment by armed groups, as noted in the UN report. Additionally, the situation underscores the broader international implications of the Sudanese conflict, involving various foreign powers in the growing humanitarian crisis.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
