SUDAN NEWS ALERT: Sudan Tribune - High-ranking RSF commander killed amidst fierce fighting in El Fasher

14/6/2024: Sudan Tribune - High-ranking RSF commander killed amidst fierce fighting in El Fasher

Sudan Tribune report that Ali Yaqoub, commander of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) operations in al-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, was killed by the joint forces (the Sudanese army, popular resistance and armed movements).

Yaqoub, a former tribal militia leader in Central Darfur state, was accused of widespread violations and crimes against the Fur ethnicity before joining the RSF and assuming command of the Central Darfur sector. He played a crucial role in the RSF’s operations in Darfur, and assigned leadership of the militia in al-Fashir.

His killing led to massive celebrations and massive rallies, despite ongoing heavy artillery shelling by the RSF. Women’s ululations and celebratory gunfire filled the air, marking the death of the RSF commander.

Yaqoub was sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in May 15.