SAR Calls for Independent Investigation into Killing of Civilian Al Bashir Burai in Bahri.

The Sudanese Alliance for Rights (SAR) is deeply concerned by the reported killing of civilian Al Bashir Burai at Al Kadru Market in Bahri Locality, Khartoum State, on 16 October 2026.

According to information received by SAR from local sources, Al Bashir Burai, a civilian originally from Al Rukayb village in Al Jazirah State, was shot and killed during an armed confrontation at the market involving individuals affiliated with the Joint Force and members of the Military Police.

Witness accounts received by SAR indicate that several individuals allegedly affiliated with the Joint Force confronted merchants and civilians at the market and forcibly took vegetables and other goods without payment. The situation reportedly escalated after members of the Military Police intervened to stop the seizure of civilians’ property. Gunfire subsequently broke out, during which Al Bashir Burai was reportedly struck by live ammunition and killed at the scene.

Sudanese media reports published on 16 October also reported the killing and allegations linking the shooting to a member of the Joint Force. However, the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including who fired the fatal shot and whether the use of live ammunition was lawful, necessary and proportionate, have not been independently established.

The reported killing of a civilian raises serious concerns regarding the protection of the right to life. Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights protects the right to life and prohibits the arbitrary deprivation of life. Any use of force resulting in the death of a civilian must be subjected to prompt, independent and impartial scrutiny, particularly where allegations of unlawful use of force have been raised.

SAR calls for an independent, impartial and transparent investigation into the events at Al Kadru Market, including the reported seizure of civilians’ property, the confrontation that followed, the use of live ammunition and the circumstances surrounding Al Bashir Burai’s death. The investigation should establish the facts, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone found responsible for unlawful conduct is held accountable in accordance with the law.

SAR further calls on all armed groups and security forces operating in civilian areas to respect civilians’ lives, property and dignity and to refrain from using force except where strictly necessary and in accordance with applicable legal standards.

The killing of civilians and the use of armed force in markets and other civilian spaces must not become normalised in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Civilians must be protected from violence, intimidation, unlawful appropriation of their property and the arbitrary use of force.

The Sudanese Alliance for Rights stands with the family of Al Bashir Burai and calls for justice, accountability and effective protection of civilians across Sudan.

Sudanese Alliance for Rights (SAR)27 October 2026