Photo credit: Top African News
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has condemned the misuse of its aid by military entities in Sudan.
Sudan Tribune reports that the Governor of Darfur, Mini Arko Minawi, and activists shared photos and videos earlier this month showing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) using UNHCR-branded tarpaulins for military purposes. The foreign ministry also requested that UNHCR clarify the RSF’s use of its material to cover weapons.
A statement by the UNHCR said, “We have seen images circulating on social media platforms showing the misuse of UNHCR-branded tarpaulins by militant entities.
“While we cannot verify the authenticity of this content, it is important to note that the UNHCR has experienced several instances of theft and looting of relief items in various locations in Sudan.”
The UNHCR has also revealed the misuse of logo on materials sold by commercial suppliers.
The RSF is being accused of looting humanitarian aid from the warehouse of UN agencies and humanitarian organizations in several areas, including Khartoum, Al Jazirah, and Darfur.
The UNHCR complained about aid being stolen, diverted, or not reaching displaced people and refugees hosted in Sudan, who are facing ongoing violence and famine.
The body emphasized that the misuse of relief items undermines its ability to provide urgently needed assistance and protection to millions of Sudanese people forced to flee their homes, both within the country and in neighbouring countries.
