In brief
BBC journalists have uncovered evidence that Sudanese paramilitary fighters deliberately struck and destroyed health facilities in el‑Fasher during the city’s siege. UN human‑rights chief Volker Türk described the findings as deeply disturbing, while international law bars attacks on medical sites. Despite the harsh evidence, the health minister of the group’s civilian‑affiliated government has dismissed the accusations as propaganda. Two doctors interviewed by BBC Africa correspondent Barbara Plett Usher confirm systematic targeting of hospitals, highlighting a broader pattern of war crimes in Darfur.
A series of BBC investigations has produced concrete evidence that Sudanese paramilitary fighters deliberately devastated the healthcare system in el‑Fasher during the town’s year‑long siege and takeover. The report documents a pattern of systematic attacks on hospitals, clinics and medical staff.
Volker Türk, the United Nations human‑rights chief, called the findings “deeply disturbing,” underscoring the seriousness of the allegations and the need for independent accountability.
Under international humanitarian law, attacking or destroying medical facilities, and targeting medical personnel, is prohibited. The BBC evidence suggests a clear violation of these legal standards.
The health minister of the war‑zone government, Dr. Alaa Eldin Nugud, rebuffed the accusations as “propaganda,” refusing to acknowledge any wrongdoing.
BBC Africa correspondent Barbara Plett Usher spoke with two doctors who confirmed the systematic targeting of hospitals, citing firsthand experiences during the siege. Their testimonies reinforce the BBC’s claims and raise urgent questions about accountability.
