UN official: Violations against civilians in Sudan may rise to war crimes

PORT SUDAN, Jan 18 (KUNA) -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk affirmed on Sunday that the serious violations committed against civilians in Sudan may increase to war crimes.
Speaking at a press conference in Port Sudan at the conclusion of his visit to the country, Turk called on the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to halt attacks on civilian entities, markets, and health facilities.
He said that RSF attacks using drones against civilian facilities and infrastructure constitute serious violations that may rise to the level of war crimes.
Turk added that it is shameful to purchase advanced weapons when these funds should have been used to alleviate the suffering of the population.
He warned that violations are likely to be repeated in the Kordofan region due to ongoing clashes and the use of drones, which have led to widespread destruction.
The civilians were forced to eat animal fodder during 18 months of siege in several areas, stressing that the International Criminal Court will begin investigations into the serious violations associated with the war in Darfur, he added.
He expressed hope that the investigations would cover all parts of Sudan, noting that "the Sudanese people have endured atrocities and those responsible must be held accountable. (end) mam.ahs