Sudan has been gripped by armed conflict for the past 12 days, and the situation shows no signs of abating. As the fighting between rival factions continues, Sudanese residents are taking desperate measures to ensure their safety.
According to a report by AP, many Sudanese residents are fleeing towards the border areas in a bid to escape the ongoing warzone. Despite a 72-hour ceasefire agreement between the Sudanese government and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, the sound of gunshots and shelling can still be heard echoing through the streets of Khartoum and Omdurman.
However, residents are taking advantage of the lull in violence to make their way towards safer havens. Many fear that the conflict between the government and the Rapid Support Forces will escalate once the evacuation of foreigners is complete, and that civilians will be used as human shields.
The situation is further complicated by the Rapid Support Forces having seized control of the national health research institute. There are concerns of an impending bioterrorism attack, as well as fear of rape and torture at the hands of the military.
These fears are driving people towards the border, with the United Nations Refugee Agency already reporting that tens of thousands of Sudanese have fled to South Sudan. The number of people attempting to cross the border is increasing day by day, as the conflict shows no signs of resolution.
As the situation in Sudan deteriorates, the international community is urged to take action to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of the Sudanese people.
