Sudan’s Most Pervasive Criminal Actor: The Rapid Support Forces

Khartoum, Sudan - In a country plagued by corruption and instability, one criminal actor stands out as a major player in Sudan’s underworld: the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Primarily comprised of former Janjaweed militias, the RSF has links to other mafia-style groups in Sudan and is known for its involvement in human trafficking, drug trafficking, and wildlife crimes.

The Criminal Activities of the RSF

The RSF’s criminal activities are often facilitated by corrupt Sudanese police and border guards, who turn a blind eye or actively collaborate with the group. Human traffickers from the Rashaida and Tabo tribes, as well as nomadic Fulani cattle herders, have also been linked to organized crime in Sudan.

Foreign Actors Involved

Libyan criminals are particularly active in Sudan’s human trafficking networks, moving victims through Libya and Egypt and onto Europe.
Criminals from the Central African Republic (CAR) and South Sudan are also involved in smuggling illicit goods over Sudan’s borders.
A network of Sudanese elites has targeted Syrian refugees by establishing an illicit market for Sudanese passports, enabling foreign criminal actors to enter and flourish in Sudan.

Mafia Groups Consolidate Power

Sudanese mafia groups, including the RSF, attempt to maintain control over their territories through extortion and violence. They are involved in: * Abductions * Looting * Cross-border smuggling and trafficking of goods and people as a means to finance their political activities * Recruiting children

The groups are particularly active in the Darfur region, where they have been known to recruit children. The RSF has also been accused of human rights abuses and war crimes.

Government Failure to Combat Organized Crime

Despite its commitment to transition into democracy, Sudan’s government appears to lack the political will and resources to effectively combat organized crime. Corruption and inadequate legislative and legal infrastructure are major obstacles to effective governance.

Challenges in Implementation

The country has ratified most relevant international treaties on transnational organized crime, but implementation remains a challenge.
The transitional government has made some efforts to improve human trafficking legislation and introduce measures against illegal gold and currency smuggling.

Sudanese authorities have failed to provide adequate support to: * Drug users * Human trafficking victims

The RSF has allegedly engaged in child soldiering, and there have been no reports of official investigations into these claims. The country’s response to organized crime appears to be largely reactive, relying on border closures and state of emergency declarations rather than preventative measures.

Conclusion

Sudanese authorities must take concrete steps to combat organized crime and protect its citizens from the RSF’s criminal activities. The country’s failure to address these issues will only perpetuate instability and undermine efforts to build a more peaceful and prosperous future.