The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have launched a large-scale security campaign in Al-Daein, the capital of East Darfur, targeting illegal weapons sales, drug trafficking and other activities blamed for rising insecurity in the city.
The operation began on Saturday and includes raids on locations suspected of selling weapons and narcotics, particularly in and around the city’s main markets.
Authorities have also banned the wearing of the kadmoul, a face covering commonly associated with armed groups, inside marketplaces as part of efforts to make it easier to identify suspects.
RSF sources told Darfur24 that the campaign was launched following repeated complaints from residents and traders over deteriorating security conditions.
The sources said the open sale of firearms in Al-Daein’s markets had become a direct threat to traders, customers and commercial property, while drug trafficking and consumption had spread across several parts of the city.
The operation also follows a series of reported robberies, killings and intimidation incidents in several neighbourhoods, which have increased fear among residents and business owners.
According to the sources, the campaign is intended to restrict the circulation of illegal weapons, disrupt the drug trade and curb the use of face coverings by armed individuals, while restoring stability across the city.
Al-Daein has witnessed repeated security incidents in recent months, including armed robberies and threats targeting residents, traders and businesses.
