Africa Insight
Cover - Sudan. Khartoum. Bridge across Blue Nile from Khartou 551d47473a

Justice - 9 August 2026

Mass Graves Found In Kurmuk After RSF Withdrawal

By Amina Kabasele2 min read

Kurmuk, August 9, 2026 - Authorities in Sudan's Blue Nile region said mass graves containing the bodies of 25 civilians had been found in Kurmuk after army forces retook the strategic border town from the Rapid Support Forces. The local commissioner said the victims included women, children and hospital staff who were executed near Jebel Fankat, an area he said the RSF had used during its assault on the town.

The graves were discovered during clearing operations in the northeastern part of Kurmuk. The discovery follows similar allegations of mass graves in other areas recovered from RSF control, including Khartoum and Gezira states. Residents and rights monitors have accused the paramilitary force of extrajudicial killings, looting and forced displacement during its occupation of Kurmuk and nearby areas.

Kurmuk's location on the Ethiopian border gives the allegations wider significance for Sudan's war trajectory, cross-border security and accountability efforts. The town has long been contested by government forces and rebel movements, making control over it strategically important for both military access and local governance.

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