The Darfur Links Association in the United Kingdom has expressed deep concern over the catastrophic humanitarian and human rights conditions reportedly faced by detainees at “Daqris” Prison in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur.
In a statement, the association said reports indicate serious violations inside the prison, including overcrowding, ill-treatment, torture, malnutrition, inadequate medical care, and the spread of diseases, as well as prolonged detention without due process or fair trials.
The group said human rights organizations have documented the deaths of large numbers of detainees in recent months. It also reported that dozens of detainees, including children, have been transferred to Nyala Hospital without information being provided about their health conditions or fate. In addition, there have been reports that families of detainees are being asked to pay financial sums in exchange for the release of their relatives.
The statement noted that the international community’s silence over what is taking place inside the prison and other detention centers in Darfur poses an additional threat to the lives of civilians, constitutes a continuation of the genocide, and creates a sense of impunity.
