EU sanctions Sudanese officials over rights abuses, escalating conflict

December 16, 2024 (BRUSSELS) – The European Union imposed sanctions on Tuesday on four Sudanese, including two generals, for human rights abuses linked to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The sanctions target individuals from both sides of the fighting, which erupted in April and has plunged Sudan into a humanitarian crisis.

Lieutenant General Mohamed Ali Ahmed Subir, head of the Sudanese military intelligence, and former national security advisor Salah Abdallah Mohamed Salah, known as “Salah Gosh,” were sanctioned for their roles in the SAF’s actions.

Subir is accused of overseeing the harassment, arbitrary arrest and torture of civilians, including sexual violence. Gosh is held responsible for directing intelligence operations that have fueled the conflict.

On the RSF side, Major General Osman Mohamed Hamid, in charge of RSF operations, and Tijani Karshom, the de facto Governor of West Darfur, were also hit with sanctions.

Hamid is accused of overseeing violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. Karshom is accused of facilitating the recruitment of militias and orchestrating human rights abuses in West Darfur.

The sanctions include an asset freeze and a travel ban to the EU, prohibiting EU individuals and entities from making funds or resources available to them.

“The imposition of these restrictive measures underlines the EU’s unwavering support for peace and accountability in Sudan,” the Council said in a statement. “The EU reaffirms its steadfast support and solidarity with the Sudanese people.”

The European Union imposed sanctions last June on six Sudanese individuals accused of destabilizing the country. Those targeted include prominent figures like Islamic Movement leader Ali Karti and the RSF commander in West Darfur, Abdul Rahman Juma Barkallah.