Sudan Relocates War Victims from Makeshift Graves Ahead of Rainy Season

KHARTOUM, July 11, 2026 - Sudanese authorities have begun relocating the remains of war victims from temporary burial sites across Khartoum as part of an urgent effort to complete exhumations before the onset of the rainy season.

Officials said the remains of 27 victims were transferred from makeshift graves in the Central Market area to official cemeteries in coordination with forensic specialists.

The operation forms part of a wider campaign launched to remove bodies buried in public spaces, residential neighbourhoods, and marketplaces during the height of the conflict, when heavy fighting and the collapse of public services left families with few options for formal burials.

Authorities said all exhumations are being carried out under established legal procedures, including documenting each case, informing relatives where possible, and identifying unknown victims before reburial in designated cemeteries.

The relocation effort is also intended to prepare Khartoum for the return of displaced residents by improving public safety and restoring normal conditions in the capital.

In parallel with the exhumation programme, government authorities are working to rehabilitate essential infrastructure damaged during the conflict, including water, electricity, healthcare, and education services.

Hundreds of mass graves have been discovered across Khartoum since government forces regained control of parts of the capital. Authorities believe many contain victims of enforced disappearances, torture, and other killings that occurred during periods of fighting, and investigations into the sites are continuing.

Justice and Rights