“We are concerned about the continued devastating impact of fighting in Sudan on civilians,” said spokesman Jeremy Laurence told journalists in Geneva.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and their military rivals, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have been locked in bitter skirmishes since mid-April.
Hundreds were killed and about 1.2 million displaced. UN agencies and partners have repeatedly warned of the growing humanitarian crisis.
Deadly air strikes in Khartoum
Mr. Laurence said at least eight people died Wednesday in an airstrike allegedly carried out by the SAF on a busy cattle market in the capital Khartoum. At least three of the victims were from the same family.
In another incident that day, a child was reportedly killed after a shell hit his home in Al-Shajraa district in southern Khartoum.
Deaths of refugees and orphans
OHCHR also received reports of the killing of four other civilians in the capital on Monday, while at least three people from the same family, including a pregnant womanwere reportedly killed on Sunday.
Airstrikes reportedly hit a refugee center that day near the sports complex in southern Khartoum At least ten refugees were killed. Aside from that, No fewer than 71 children have died in an orphanage in Khartoum since the fighting began due to a lack of humanitarian aid, including medical supplies.
Sexual violence, online hate
Mr Laurence said OHCHR was also concerned about reports of conflict-related sexual violence.
“Since the fighting began, our office has received credible reports of 12 incidents of sexual violence related to the conflict at least 37 women – although the number could be higher. In at least three incidents, the Victims were young girls. In one case, 18 to 20 women were reportedly raped,” he said.
Another cause for concern is the increasing reports of apparent disappearances and arbitrary detentions, he added Journalists are also now at greater risk amid a surge in online hate speech and disinformation.
OHCHR has learned of a list circulating on social media accusing certain journalists of being RSF supporters. Employees have also seen comments on Facebook call to kill from those on the list.
appeal to accountability
“We repeat the High Commissioner’s call to both parties to the conflict Ensuring the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law and international human rights law,” he said.
“They must too Ensure that all violations are investigated effectively and independently and those responsible will be held accountable.”
