Sudanese Journalist Kidnapped in Khartoum as Ransom Demands Escalate
The Sudanese Journalists’ Syndicate reported on Monday that an unspecified armed group kidnapped a well-known Sudanese journalist from his home in east Khartoum, an area under the control of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
On Friday, the kidnappers took Alaa El-Din Abu Harba and initially demanded a ransom of 1 million Sudanese pounds (about $365).
However, after receiving the ransom, they escalated their demand to 1 billion pounds (about $1,600,000), raising serious concerns for Abu Harba’s long-term safety.
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“This puts the life of Abu Harba in grave danger,” the union stated.
The union considers the RSF to be the primary power in the area and, therefore, responsible for Harba’s well-being.
The RSF, which has been in active rebellion against the internationally recognized government, did not respond to requests for comment regarding the kidnapping.
Khartoum has experienced widespread lawlessness since the conflict erupted in April between the government, represented by the Sudanese Armed Forces, or SAF, and the RSF. The journalists’ union has reported 438 violations against reporters, including four killings.
Earlier this month, another journalist, Abdel Rahman Hanin, had his home raided by an armed group, which looted valuables and cash and terrified his wife and children.
In light of increasing civilian complaints about abuses, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as “Hemedti,” announced on August 12 the formation of a special force tasked with protecting civilians amid the ongoing chaos across Sudan.
