A human rights group in Sudan has raised alarm over the rising number of civilian casualties caused by the ongoing conflict.

The Darfur Youth Organization (Mashad) Observatory for Human Rights alleges nearly 5,000 civilians have been killed or wounded since the war began in April 2023.

According to Mashad, the violence has claimed the lives of at least 1,411 civilians, including children and pregnant women. Additionally, over 3,496 civilians have sustained injuries, with hundreds suffering debilitating wounds like amputations.

The report blames the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, for the significant civilian casualties. Mashad accuses the RSF of indiscriminate artillery shelling that has destroyed homes and service facilities in various Sudanese states.

Mashad strongly condemns the RSF's actions, characterizing the targeting of civilians as "unfortunate." The organization urges the international community and human rights defenders to speak out against these violations and the horrific crimes committed against civilians during wartime.

The statement concludes with a call for international judicial bodies and human rights organizations to step up efforts to hold the RSF accountable for their actions. Mashad demands the prosecution of RSF leaders and supporters, along with the imposition of "deterrent penalties" for these violations. (ILKHA)