At least nine people who had been forced to flee their homes have been killed in a drone attack targeting civilians in southeastern Sudan, highlighting the growing humanitarian dangers faced by displaced communities amid the country’s ongoing civil war.

The attack occurred in Blue Nile State when a group of displaced civilians was travelling from Bani Shako village in Kurmuk locality towards Damazin, the state capital.

According to Kurmuk Commissioner Abdel Ati Mohamed al-Faki, several other people were injured in the incident. He attributed the attack to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which is fighting against Sudan’s national army.

The incident has raised further concerns about the safety of civilians attempting to escape conflict-affected areas in search of protection.

Civilians Targeted While Seeking Safety

The victims were reportedly travelling away from Bani Shako towards Damazin when drones struck their group.

Damazin has become an important destination for people fleeing violence in surrounding areas of Blue Nile State.

For many displaced families, leaving their homes is often the only available option when fighting approaches their communities.

However, the latest incident demonstrates that even people attempting to escape dangerous areas can remain exposed to aerial attacks and other security threats.

Several people were also reported injured, although local authorities did not immediately provide a complete casualty breakdown.

RSF Accused of Carrying Out the Attack

Kurmuk Commissioner Abdel Ati Mohamed al-Faki blamed the Rapid Support Forces for the drone strike, according to information provided to Xinhua.

The RSF is one of the main parties involved in Sudan’s ongoing armed conflict against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

The paramilitary group had not publicly commented on the specific incident in the initial reports.

The allegations surrounding responsibility for the attack have not been independently verified.

Fighting Intensifies in Blue Nile State

The attack comes as military operations continue to intensify across several parts of southeastern Sudan.

A Sudanese military source said the national army had increased its air operations against RSF positions and forces allied with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N).

These operations have added to the security challenges facing communities in the region.

Blue Nile State is strategically important because of its location near the Ethiopian border. Continued fighting in the area has increased pressure on civilian populations and contributed to further displacement.

Drone Warfare Creates Growing Risks for Civilians

The increasing use of drones has become a major feature of Sudan’s conflict.

Both sides have used aerial capabilities during military operations, raising concerns about the protection of civilians living near conflict zones.

Drone attacks on villages, residential gatherings and other populated areas in Kurmuk have reportedly increased in recent months.

Such incidents have contributed to civilian casualties and encouraged more families to leave their homes in search of safer locations.

For displaced people who have already lost access to their homes, livelihoods and basic services, further attacks can make survival even more difficult.

Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis Continues to Deepen

Sudan has been experiencing a devastating armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces since April 2023.

The fighting has resulted in widespread destruction, thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions of people.

Communities across the country continue to face shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies and safe shelter.

Displaced families are particularly vulnerable because many have limited access to healthcare, employment and humanitarian assistance.

The latest drone attack adds to concerns about the protection of civilians as fighting spreads across additional areas.

International Concerns Over Civilian Protection

The killing of displaced civilians has renewed attention on the need to protect people who are not participating in hostilities.

Under international humanitarian law, civilians must be protected during armed conflicts, and parties to a conflict are required to distinguish between civilian populations and military targets.

Humanitarian organisations have repeatedly called for safer access to affected communities and protection for people fleeing violence.

The latest incident also highlights the importance of investigating attacks involving civilian casualties and establishing responsibility through credible evidence.

A Dangerous Situation for Displaced Families

The deaths of nine displaced people in Blue Nile State underline the growing risks facing ordinary Sudanese citizens as the country’s conflict continues.

People who have already been forced to abandon their homes are now facing additional dangers while travelling towards areas they hope will provide protection.

As military operations intensify, the security situation in southeastern Sudan remains a serious concern.

Without improved civilian protection and meaningful progress towards ending the conflict, more families could be exposed to violence, displacement and humanitarian hardship.

The latest attack is another reminder that civilians continue to bear a devastating share of the consequences of Sudan’s prolonged war.