16/05/2026
Sudanese Agency for Relief and Humanitarian Operations (SARHO)
Press Statement
In a concerning development, and based on directives issued by the Humanitarian Aid Commission affiliated with the army, security authorities in the city of Al-Dabba in Northern Sudan continue to detain 160 humanitarian aid trucks belonging to the World Food Programme (WFP). The trucks are loaded with more than 6,000 tons of food and non-food items and have been prevented from proceeding to their destinations in the Darfur region. This constitutes a deliberate attempt to obstruct the delivery of assistance to thousands of displaced persons and war-affected communities, amid the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country.
These trucks had completed all required legal procedures, including obtaining movement permits from SARHO, before military intelligence forces affiliated with the army halted them and blocked their passage to their destinations in East and South Darfur states, as well as Tawila locality in North Darfur. The trucks have been ready for movement since February and March of this year.
Preventing the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in need constitutes a grave violation of the principles of international humanitarian law and exacerbates human suffering, exposing civilians—especially displaced populations—to the risks of hunger, malnutrition, and disease. The army bears full responsibility for the continued detention of these consignments and the obstruction of their passage through the Al-Dabba corridor.
In light of this, SARHO calls on the international community, particularly United Nations agencies, to intervene urgently and effectively to secure the immediate release of the detained trucks and to ensure their safe and unhindered passage to their intended beneficiaries in the Darfur region.
SARHO also expresses its deep concern regarding the prolonged detention period and the associated risks to the safety of the consignments, including the potential for spoilage, loss, diversion, or misuse beyond their designated humanitarian purposes.
Media Department
16 May 2026