The HUDO Centre reports that airstrikes in South Kordofan, allegedly by SPLM-N El Hilu, have resulted in at least 70 deaths, mostly women and children. The region’s health system is in disarray, exacerbating fatalities due to lack of essential medical supplies. The SAF asserts they were defending against SPLM-N attacks, amid a backdrop of escalating conflict and humanitarian issues.
The Sudanese Human Rights and Development Organisation (HUDO Centre) has reported that the death toll from recent bombings in South Kordofan has increased to 70, predominantly affecting women and girls. This incident occurred on February 3 when the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N El Hilu), led by Abdelaziz El Hilu, was accused of bombing Kadugli as a response to an attack from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
According to HUDO, at least 44 individuals were killed and 28 were injured during the bombardment in Kadugli, with the Sudanese Armed Forces claiming they repelled artillery attacks from the SPLM-N El Hilu. However, HUDO has indicated that the health services in Kadugli have collapsed, which has exacerbated the already high death toll. As noted in early reports, the SAF attacked SPLM-N positions on Jebel Hajar Almac, leading to a sequence of events that culminated in civilian casualties.
HUDO details how civilians, including children, celebrated alongside SAF soldiers returning from the front lines, only to be targeted by a counter-attack from SPLM-N artillery, resulting in numerous casualties near Kadugli church. Subsequent bombings also impacted other areas; however, the extent of civilian casualties from the bombardments is stark, with many being women and children.
As of February 4, the number of fatalities rose to 54, attributed largely to the inadequate medical resources available in Kadugli, including critical shortages of life-saving drugs and oxygen. The current assessment indicates that the total has reached 70, with a significant portion of the deceased being under 18 years of age. The health system in Kadugli has severely deteriorated, resulting in preventable deaths due to the closure of essential medical units and the inaccessibility of alternative treatment options due to high travel costs.
Radio Dabanga has sought comments from both the SAF and SPLM-N El Hilu regarding these events, but previous attempts to engage with the involved parties on military operations have largely gone unanswered.
The recent bombings in South Kordofan have led to significant civilian casualties, primarily affecting vulnerable groups such as women and children. The collapse of healthcare facilities has compounded the tragedy, resulting in further unnecessary deaths. The events highlight the critical need for humanitarian intervention and access to medical care amid ongoing conflict. The situation underscores the devastating impact of warfare on civilian populations, necessitating urgent attention from international communities and relief organizations.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
