Human Rights Watch is urging governments to increase pressure on the United Arab Emirates after accusing it of training Colombian mercenaries who were later deployed to support Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, according to an Associated Press report. The UAE denied the allegations.

The rights group said countries, including members of the European Union, should press Abu Dhabi to end any support for the RSF and consider suspending military cooperation and arms sales.

The allegations add to growing scrutiny of foreign involvement in Sudan’s war, which began in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the RSF. A UN panel report previously said Colombian mercenaries had fought in several parts of Sudan and operated drones, artillery and armored vehicles for the RSF. Download UN panel report pdf here.

The issue has also drawn sanctions attention. The U.S. Treasury previously sanctioned a network it said recruited former Colombian military personnel and trained fighters, including children, for the RSF.

HRW said the latest findings should push governments to move beyond statements of concern and take concrete steps to limit outside support for armed groups accused of abuses in Sudan.

Source: Associated Press