Fresh clashes in southeast Sudan are causing more suffering for civilians, with over 136,000 people fleeing their homes in search of safety, according to UN humanitarians.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated in a flash update that people are facing multiple protection risks and widespread looting of homes and personal belongings.
Humanitarian partners in the southeast of Sudan are increasing their response to assist the displaced people from Sennar state.
Sennar, Sinja, and Ad Dinder localities were already hosting around 286,000 displaced people before the recent escalation in clashes in late June.
The newly displaced people from Sennar may have already been displaced at least once before, as indicated.
Homes, shops under attack
Displaced individuals are facing safety threats, with reports of extensive looting of their homes, vehicles, and personal belongings by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) members.
Local shops and markets are also being targeted, depriving civilians of essential resources and increasing insecurity.
The conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF began in April last year, amidst growing tensions related to the transition towards civilian governance.
Overall situation
OCHA also reported that those displaced in Sennar are moving to neighbouring states of Gedaref, Kassala, and Blue Nile.
About 26,000 individuals, including 6,800 children, have arrived in Gedaref, facing urgent needs for food, water, and shelter.
An additional 1,000 people from Sennar have reached the reception center in Kassala state.
Furthermore, over 30,000 people have arrived in Blue Nile state, with most being accommodated in school buildings already housing other displaced communities.
UN intervention
In response to the influx, UN humanitarian teams are distributing meals and water, providing basic health services through mobile clinics, and supporting a common kitchen for feeding around 15,000 people.
However, more assistance is needed to address the growing needs as displacement intensifies, according to OCHA.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.