Darfur massacre: UN finds more than 6,000 killed in El Fasher

A UN investigation reports that more than 6,000 people were killed in El Fasher during a three-day assault by the Rapid Support Forces last October, and the findings have prompted calls for action by the UN Security Council.

A United Nations investigation reports that more than 6,000 people were killed in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, during a three-day assault last October. The report attributes the deaths to actions by the Rapid Support Forces and documents widespread mass killings and other abuses. Investigators said their findings were based on testimony, satellite imagery and video analysis. The release of the report prompted responses from UN officials calling for a formal response. Key findings: - UN investigators estimate more than 6,000 people were killed in El Fasher during a three-day assault in October. - The investigation drew on testimony from survivors and witnesses, along with satellite imagery and video analysis. - Thousands of people are reported missing and humanitarian workers describe the city as largely depopulated after an extended siege. - UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on the UN Security Council to pursue justice in response to the reported crimes. Summary: The UN report describes large-scale killings and other serious abuses in El Fasher and indicates the final death toll may be higher than current estimates. The findings have led the UN Secretary-General to request action by the UN Security Council; the next procedural step is consideration by the Security Council, and the timing of any response is undetermined at this time.