Security forces loyal to Port Sudan junta have come under increasing scrutiny following reports of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances in multiple regions, including South Kordofan and El Gezira state, amid intensifying crackdowns in areas retaken by General al-Burhan’s forces (SAF).
In Abu Jubeiha, South Kordofan, security agents reportedly detained hospital employee Ahmed Hassan Shamboul on Wednesday without explanation. Witnesses said he was arrested outside Abu Jubeiha Hospital by security operatives and taken to an undisclosed location. His family and local residents expressed growing concern over his fate, describing the arrest as part of a broader campaign of repression.
“He was taken during an intensive security sweep involving home raids and mass arrests,” a relative told independent broadcaster Radio Dabanga. Local sources said the operation appeared politically motivated and may be targeting individuals suspected of sympathizing with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Activists claim remnants of Sudan’s former Islamist regime are behind the campaign, aiming to settle political scores as tensions escalate between SAF and RSF.
Authorities in Abu Jubeiha declined requests for comment.
Separately, human rights groups have condemned the ongoing secret detention of writer and historian Khaled Beheiri, who was arrested on January 14 and has not been seen publicly since a brief court appearance three months later in El Managil. The Emergency Lawyers group said Beheiri is being held without charges or access to legal counsel, in violation of domestic and international laws.
Beheiri, known for his civil society work and online documentation of humanitarian relief in Wad Madani, reportedly appeared weakened and in poor health during his only sighting in custody.
“This constitutes enforced disappearance,” the Emergency Lawyers said in a statement, warning that such detentions violate Sudan’s constitutional guarantees and international obligations, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The group demanded his immediate and unconditional release, along with public disclosure of his detention conditions.
The government of El Gezira state previously confirmed the arrest of over 4,000 individuals during recent security operations. Rights organisations accuse SAF-affiliated forces of targeting civilians in contested or recently recaptured areas.
Sudan has been mired in a brutal civil conflict since April 2023, when fighting erupted between SAF, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti). Both sides have faced accusations of war crimes and repression in areas under their control.
