RSF Detains Commander Abu Lulu After Viral El Fasher Killings Spark Outrage
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have announced the arrest of Abu Lulu, a senior commander whose actions sparked outrage after videos surfaced showing unarmed men being executed in El Fasher. In a statement released Thursday, the RSF said Abu Lulu was taken into custody and is being investigated for what the group described as “unauthorized acts” carried out during operations in North Darfur. The announcement comes days after graphic footage circulated online, showing armed men believed to be RSF fighters shooting civilians at close range.
The videos, verified by human rights monitors, triggered widespread condemnation and renewed international calls for accountability amid the deepening war between the RSF and Sudan’s national army. El Fasher has endured intense fighting in recent months, becoming one of the most contested cities in the Darfur region. Civilians there have suffered heavy casualties as both sides battle for control.
Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have accused the RSF of systematic abuses across Darfur, including killings, looting and forced displacement. The arrest of Abu Lulu marks one of the few instances where the militia has publicly acknowledged internal wrongdoing.
Despite the announcement, many observers remain skeptical about whether justice will be served, citing the RSF’s history of impunity and lack of transparency. The United Nations has repeatedly urged for independent investigations into atrocities committed during Sudan’s ongoing conflict.