The World Health Organization has expressed concern over reports that more than 70 health workers and around 5,000 civilians are being forcibly detained in Nyala.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on the “X” platform: “We are concerned by reports from Nyala, the capital of South Darfur State, indicating that more than 70 healthcare workers, along with approximately 5,000 civilians, are being detained.”
He added that, according to the Sudan Doctors Network, detainees are being held in unhealthy conditions, with reports of disease outbreaks.
Tedros said the WHO is gathering additional information about the detentions and the conditions of those held, noting that continued insecurity is further complicating the situation.
He stressed that reports of the detention of healthcare workers and thousands of others are deeply alarming, adding: “Health workers and civilians must be protected at all times. We call for their safe and unconditional release.”
