Mellit, November 24 (Darfur24)
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Mellit, in North Darfur, issued a series of emergency directives in response to a spike in violence, armed robberies, and killings reported over the past three months.
The RSF seized control of Mellit in April last year after brief clashes with the joint force of armed movements aligned with the Sudanese army, which later withdrew.
Eyewitnesses and local sources told Darfur24 that RSF commanders circulated the new measures through a mobile loudspeaker that toured all neighborhoods.
A copy of the decisions obtained by Darfur24 shows sweeping restrictions, including a ban on firing live ammunition inside the city for any reason and a prohibition on the movement of combat vehicles without prior authorization.
The orders also bar military presence inside residential areas and civilian facilities, and prohibit the use of military vehicles for personal purposes. Trading in military uniforms, weapons, and ammunition, both inside and outside the city, is banned.
Other measures include a ban on wearing the “kadmoul,” as well as prohibitions on the sale or use of alcohol and narcotics. Military and combat vehicles are not allowed to enter Mellit without a movement order issued by the RSF command.
The directives further prohibit carrying weapons in markets, hospitals, public facilities, and other civilian spaces, and outlaw the looting of property belonging to government and non-government institutions, including generators, building materials, and furniture.
Violators face penalties, including imprisonment for a term of no less than three months, in addition to other legal consequences.