A recent investigation has uncovered how foreign fighters played a key role in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. The report reveals that a network of Colombian mercenaries helped support the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group in Sudan.
According to findings by the Conflict Insights Group, these fighters contributed to the RSF’s capture of the western city of el-Fasher last year. Researchers based their conclusions on mobile phone tracking data linked to the mercenaries.
The report also suggests a connection between the RSF and the United Arab Emirates. Although the UAE has consistently denied any involvement, investigators claim the evidence now points to direct support.
The RSF has been engaged in a prolonged conflict with Sudan’s national army for nearly three years. This war has triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, leaving tens of thousands dead and forcing millions to flee their homes.
Director Justin Lynch from the Conflict Insights Group stated that this is the first time researchers can confirm such involvement with strong evidence. He explained that the findings reveal a clear link between Abu Dhabi and the RSF, something analysts have suspected for some time.
The report highlights how mercenaries involved in drone operations traveled from a UAE-linked base to Sudan before the takeover of el-Fasher. Investigators also discovered that some fighters used identifiable digital traces, including naming their Wi-Fi networks after their units connected to UAE-based companies.
Last year, Colombian President Gustavo Petro criticized the recruitment of these fighters. He described them as dangerous actors and warned that such recruitment practices resemble human trafficking.
Meanwhile, the UAE has rejected the accusations. Officials have labeled previous claims as false and strongly condemned the violence that took place in el-Fasher.
Experts believe that foreign involvement on both sides has fueled the conflict and made it harder to reach a resolution. As a result, the situation in Sudan continues to worsen, with no clear end in sight.
