Sudan: Al-Kanabi Communities Targeted in Raids, Organization Denounces Systematic Repression

By: Media Desk – Al-Kanabi Conference in Sudan Date: September 5, 2025

In a troubling escalation of violence against the Al-Kanabi communities in Sudan’s Al-Jazeera State, military groups launched a series of coordinated raids and inspections on September 4, 2025. The operations targeted several localities, including Lime Kombu, Kombu ATRA Kababish, and Kampo Diaspora, in what observers describe as a sweeping campaign of repression.

According to the Al-Kanabi Conference in Sudan, dozens of civilians were arbitrarily detained under the controversial “alien faces” law—a vague and discriminatory provision that has been widely criticized by human rights advocates. The organization reports that detainees are being held in multiple facilities, including Wad Madani city prison, Al-Kamil, Al-Hassaissa, Al-Manaqil, and other undisclosed locations. Many are reportedly suffering from deteriorating health due to lack of food, water, and medical care. Disturbingly, the Conference claims that thousands have been subjected to torture, with some cases resulting in death at the hands of security forces.

In a strongly worded statement, the Al-Kanabi Conference condemned what it described as “inhumane and immoral behavior,” asserting that the actions amount to a systematic crime against unarmed civilians. The organization called for:

An immediate halt to the raids and the unconditional release of all detainees

A transparent investigation led by regional and international bodies into the violations committed against Al-Kanabi civilians

Accountability and prosecution of those responsible for these grave abuses

The statement also warned that continued silence from the international community would only exacerbate the crisis and embolden further violations. “This will not deter us from pursuing our legitimate struggle for justice and human dignity,” the Conference affirmed.

This latest crackdown follows months of rising tensions in central Sudan, where Al-Kanabi communities have faced displacement, violence, and marginalization. Earlier this year, the Central Committee of the Al-Kanabi Conference met with the IGAD Special Envoy for Sudan to raise concerns about ethnic cleansing and forced displacement. Despite these efforts, violations persist, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and action.