Darfur lawyers denounce arbitrary detentions in Port Sudan

The Darfur Bar Association (DBA) announced on Tuesday that Abdelrahman Adam Ahmed, a displaced coordinator, was arrested by the security apparatus in Port Sudan. Follow-ups and statements from families, conducted by the DBA, indicate that over 150 young people have been detained in Port Sudan and Atbara.

Ahmed was detained on July 4 in front of the Export Development Bank along with another individual, according to a statement from the board. The other detainee, affiliated with Sudan Liberation Movement faction under the leadership of Minni Minawi (SLM-MM), has since been released. However, Ahmed’s whereabouts remain unknown. He has been denied contact with his family and legal representation.

Radio Dabanga recently reported on the detentions made by the Military Intelligence of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the SLM-MM. The DBA notes that arrests occurred on streets, in shops, and at kiosks.

Some detainees face charges under Articles 50 and 51 of the 1991 Criminal Code, which carry severe penalties, including death, for undermining the constitutional system and cooperating with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

The DBA confirmed it will coordinate with colleagues in Port Sudan and Atbara to provide legal aid to those arrested, ensuring their release if they are found innocent of the charges.