Statement of the ICC Office of the Prosecutor on El-Fasher, North Darfur
The Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) expresses its deep alarm and concern about reports from El-Fasher involving mass killings, rapes, and other crimes allegedly committed during attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). These grave acts appear to be part of a wider pattern of violence afflicting the Darfur region since April 2023.
If confirmed, these acts may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity as defined under the Rome Statute.
Jurisdiction and Investigation
The Office recalls that according to UN Security Council Resolution 1593 (2005), the ICC holds jurisdiction over crimes occurring in the ongoing Darfur conflict. Investigations have been underway concerning alleged crimes committed since the hostilities began in April 2023.
Current Efforts and Cooperation
As noted in the latest Report to the UN Security Council, the Office is intensifying its efforts through repeated field missions, increased engagement with victims and civil society, and enhanced collaboration with national authorities and international organizations.
Specific Measures in El-Fasher
Regarding the allegations in El-Fasher, immediate steps are being taken to secure and gather pertinent evidence to support future prosecutions.
"The Office is working intensively, including through repeated field deployments, deepened engagement with victims groups and civil society, and enhanced cooperation with national authorities and international organisations."
The Office’s ongoing commitment emphasizes the pursuit of justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators.
Author's Summary
The ICC Prosecutor’s Office urgently addresses serious crimes in El-Fasher, strengthening investigations and partnerships to ensure accountability for mass atrocities in Darfur since April 2023.