Mother’s Remains Left in the Desert During Escape from Sudan
In Sudan, desperate attempts to escape the ongoing war have led people to hand over their savings to unscrupulous people smugglers. The brutal conflict has entered its 10th month, resulting in over 10 million people being displaced, with an estimated 450,000 fleeing to Egypt. Seeking safety from the conflict, individuals resort to dangerous journeys facilitated by smugglers, often involving life-threatening risks.
One harrowing account comes from Salama, a 25-year-old widow with two children who attempted to cross the border with her family. Tragically, her 65-year-old mother died when the smuggler’s pick-up truck crashed, and the smugglers callously abandoned the grieving family in the desert.
The conflict, marked by a power struggle between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has fueled the displacement of millions, prompting a surge in people attempting to escape to neighboring countries. The war has disrupted lives, instigated violence, and created an environment where many feel compelled to flee for their safety.
Sudanese citizens face challenges accessing legal routes to escape the conflict due to visa restrictions and increased difficulty obtaining approvals. Smugglers exploit this desperation, often demanding exorbitant fees for dangerous journeys through the desert. The smugglers, often involved in gold mining in the region, possess knowledge of the challenging terrain and have access to trucks.
Reports indicate that accidents during these journeys are common due to high-speed driving to evade authorities. The risks include fatalities, injuries, and instances where smugglers refuse to transport deceased bodies, leaving families stranded in the desert.
Robberies also add to the dangers, with armed attacks on stranded individuals, leading to thefts and further trauma. The rise in smugglers’ activities and increased prices highlight the worsening situation, with the RSF attacks intensifying.
Efforts to tackle smuggling and improve legal avenues are essential for the safety and well-being of those trying to escape the conflict. The Sudanese consulate in Aswan, Egypt, has launched campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of people smuggling while working with the Egyptian government to expedite visa processes.
The challenges persist as applicants face long waits, inadequate infrastructure, and the risk of deportation upon reaching Egypt. Once in Egypt, Sudanese migrants continue to encounter hurdles, with obtaining refugee status being a lengthy and cumbersome process. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) acknowledges the challenges, citing a shortage of funds and prioritization based on need.
The stories of those who have endured dangerous journeys underscore the urgency of addressing the root causes of the conflict, improving legal avenues for migration, and providing adequate support for displaced individuals. The international community plays a crucial role in supporting initiatives that prioritize the safety and well-being of those affected by the Sudanese conflict, ensuring that individuals seeking refuge are not forced into dangerous situations.
