A new investigation by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has leveled serious accusations against the United Arab Emirates, claiming the nation served as a transit point for Colombian mercenaries headed to Sudan.
The report alleges that these contractors, recruited by an Abu Dhabi-based company under the guise of drone pilot work, were trained at UAE military facilities before being deployed to support the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The RSF has been embroiled in a brutal civil war since April 2023, a conflict that has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and millions of displacements. According to the HRW report, these foreign fighters provided tactical expertise and served in various combat roles, including as infantry and artillerymen.
Witnesses in the city of el-Fasher reported seeing foreign fighters present during mass killings, though some survivors noted these individuals did not personally carry out the executions. The report further claims that munitions purchased by the UAE were discovered in the region.
In response, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically denied the allegations, stating that it does not permit its territory to be used for the recruitment or transit of foreign fighters.
The Emirati government maintains that any entity providing operational support to non-state actors would be acting in violation of national law and subject to criminal prosecution.
As international bodies call for further investigation, the UAE insists it remains committed to securing a ceasefire and supporting a transition to a civilian-led government in Sudan.
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