RSF Arrests Two Brothers at Adr-El Geneina Border Amid Route Closure

• The Adr-El Geneina border route has been closed since July 28, disrupting trade and supply chains between Chad and West Darfur.
• Two brothers, Mahmoud Obali Mohammed and Ahmed Obali Mohammed, were arrested by the Rapid Support Forces on suspicion of collaborating with the Sudanese Armed Forces.
• Chadian authorities have reportedly arrested several RSF members, but details about the arrests remain unclear.
• The Darfur Network for Human Rights is advocating for accountability and civilian protection in the wake of these arrests.

Local sources report that new security developments have been implemented along the route, with eyewitnesses confirming the presence of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) personnel.

The closure of the Adr-El Geneina border route since July 28 has led to significant disruptions in trade and supply chains between Chad and West Darfur. Local sources report that new security developments have been implemented along the route, with eyewitnesses confirming the presence of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) personnel. The RSF's activities have resulted in the arrest of two brothers, Mahmoud Obali Mohammed, 30, and Ahmed Obali Mohammed, 33, who were allegedly detained on suspicion of collaborating or communicating with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). No official statement has been issued to confirm these allegations or provide details about the circumstances surrounding the arrests.

Separately, Chadian authorities have reportedly arrested several members of the Rapid Support Forces. While officials have not disclosed the number of individuals detained or the reasons behind their arrest, local communities are calling for the release of Mahmoud and Ahmed Obali Mohammed unless credible evidence is presented through a transparent legal process. The Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) has expressed concern over the human rights implications of these arrests and is advocating for accountability and civilian protection.

The closure of the Adr-El Geneina border route has had far-reaching consequences, with humanitarian organizations being the only entities allowed to operate in the area. The market in Adré has remained fully closed since July 28, with local communities calling for the reopening of the border and resumption of civilian trade and movement. DNHR is also urging both Sudanese and Chadian authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding all arrests connected to this incident.

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of the potential for disruptions to trade and supply chains along the Adr-El Geneina border, and may need to advise clients on the implications of this development for their business operations.

Source: Original reporting via Darfur Network for Human Rights