Residents of East Darfur state have complained that their businesses have been affected by an almost complete stop of work in the state government offices. They say that most of the government employees have not returned to their offices yet, after the recent clashes between the Rizeigat and Ma’alia tribes – particularly the employees belonging to the latter tribe.

The residents are also complaining to Radio Dabanga about the return of lawlessness and banditry in Ed Daein, the capital of East Darfur. The medical director of Ed Daein hospital was reportedly assaulted inside his house and his two mobiles and a laptop were stolen.

The Secretary General of East Darfur state, Ahmed Mohamed Daoud, acknowledged the absence of a number of employees of the state, due to banditry by “armed movements, thieves and criminals”, pointing out that most of those employees are from the state of North Darfur. However, he strongly denied a work stop in the government offices.

Drivers of private vehicles and commercial trucks using the road connecting Ed Daein with Nahoud have complained to Radio Dabanga of high transit fees allegedly demanded by militias, ranging from SDG40 ($9) to SDG50 ($11.25) per vehicle. “There is a toll gate at approximately every 100m on the road, in which gunmen reportedly subject the vehicles and people to rigorous inspection before asking them to pay transit fees. In case of non-payment, goods and belongings are taken instead,” witnesses said.

The owners of the vehicles have demanded the authorities of East Darfur state to intervene to stop “those illegitimate fees”. The Secretary General of East Darfur state has acknowledged the existence of those toll gates. However, he strongly denied that the militiamen belong to any regular or governmental entity and said that a native administration committee from has been sent to deal with the problem.

The UN has reported that restrictions have been imposed on humanitarian access to the areas of Adeela and Abu Karinka in East Darfur. Due to the recent clashes between the Rizeigat and Ma’alia tribes, the number of displaced in the areas has increased to more than 143,000. The newly displaced are in dire need for food and medications.

Reporting by Radio Dabanga

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