Death Toll Rises in South Kordofan Bombing, Primarily Affecting Women and Girls

The HUDO Centre reports that at least 70 people, mostly women and girls, have died in bombings in South Kordofan. The violence stems from conflicts between the SPLM-N and SAF. The collapse of health services has worsened the situation, resulting in preventable deaths from lack of medical supplies and access to care.

The Sudanese Human Rights and Development Organisation (HUDO Centre) has reported a rising death toll of 70, primarily affecting women and girls, from a bombing in South Kordofan’s capital, Kadugli, on February 3. This violence occurred during an exchange between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, led by Abdelaziz El Hilu (SPLM-N El Hilu), and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). HUDO claims the bombardment was the SPLM-N’s reaction to an earlier attack by the SAF.

Initial reports indicated 44 fatalities and 28 injuries in Kadugli due to artillery shelling. The SAF claims to have countered SPLM-N artillery assaults. However, the UN’s humanitarian response has been challenged by the collapse of health services in the region, raising concerns over preventable deaths.

The bombing incident reportedly started when SAF soldiers replaced SPLM-N at a military post. A subsequent SPLM-N artillery counterattack hit civilians, resulting in significant casualties, including children. Following this, other bombs targeted various locations, including a military brigade and residential areas, leading to further injuries and fatalities.

As of February 4, the death toll had risen due to inadequate medical resources in local hospitals. The health crisis has been exacerbated by the closure of essential services over five months, contributing to additional deaths among patients reliant on dialysis. Many victims lack access to necessary treatment due to the geographical and financial barriers associated with the ongoing conflict in Kadugli.

The situation in South Kordofan remains dire, with escalating civilian casualties led primarily by female and young victims. The collapse of health services and the lack of resources have compounded the tragic outcomes of the violence. The conflict between the SPLM-N and SAF continues to cause humanitarian crises that require immediate attention and intervention.

Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org