At least 36,000 Sudanese have evacuated since fall of El Fasher to Rapid Support Forces, states UN agency
Over 36,000 people have escaped Sudan's Kordofan region east of Darfur beginning Saturday, as stated by the UN's immigration body.
The important central zone separating the country's Darfur provinces and the capital region has in recent weeks become the latest battleground in the 24-month civil conflict between the Sudanese military forces and the militia group.
Massive Exodus Figures
An approximated 36,825 people fled five districts in North Kordofan state between 26 October and 31 October, as reported by the International Organization for Migration.
The civilians, mainly traveling by foot, moved toward Tawila, a town to the west of El Fasher that is currently accommodating in excess of 652,000 displaced people.
Heightened Military Presence
Local inhabitants of North Kordofan on Monday reported a heavy surge in both RSF and army concentration across towns and villages throughout the state.
Both military groups are vying for control of El Obeid, the North Kordofan state capital and a important strategic and command center that links Darfur to Khartoum.
"Today, all our forces have gathered at the Bara front here," said an RSF member in a recently shared video message.
Regional Inhabitants Report Safety Fears
A resident of Um Smeima, located west of El Obeid, described that the number of RSF vehicles had increased considerably since the group's capture of El Fasher.
"We ceased visiting our farms, fearing clashes," the local explained.
Another inhabitant, who requested anonymity for security reasons, also reported that "there has been a substantial growth in army vehicles and weapons west and south of El Obeid" over the past two weeks.
International Warnings and Calls
A senior UN official expressed concerns last week about "extensive crimes" and "ethnic-based retaliations" by RSF in Bara.
The diplomat cautioned about patterns echoing those in Darfur, where RSF fighters have been charged with mass killings, sexual violence and abductions against certain racial groups.
The church leader on Sunday appealed for an prompt truce and the opening of relief routes in Sudan, declaring that attacks on civilians and obstacles to humanitarian aid "are causing unacceptable suffering."
Sudan's ambassador to Egypt on Sunday alleged RSF of carrying out war crimes in El Fasher and announced that the Sudanese government would not discuss with the militia organization.
The representative further urged the international community to classify the group as a terrorist organisation.