Sudanese Rapid Support Forces leader Mohamed Hamdan Hemetti, also known as Hamidti, has been engaging in meetings with local leaders and officials in the city of Nyala, South Darfur. According to reports from the Darfur24 newspaper, these meetings involve complex security procedures that include prolonged waiting periods and thorough background checks. The newspaper cited a member of a local delegation that met with Hamidti, revealing that they had to wait over a month for the meeting and were only informed of the meeting's date two weeks in advance.
The meeting procedures involve thorough security checks, including individual interrogations of the attendees about their tribal affiliations, social relationships, and political backgrounds. Members of the delegation also reported being prohibited from bringing personal belongings, including keys and rosaries. These measures are reportedly standard for meetings with Hamidti, reflecting concerns over security and potential threats from rival groups or aerial attacks.
On the day of the meeting, the delegation was kept waiting at a specific location from early morning until evening without any information on the meeting's timing or location. A fully covered bus arrived at 8 pm, accompanied by a special force that conducted thorough searches before allowing the participants to board. The bus then traveled through Nyala's streets for over an hour, with the passengers unable to determine their destination.
The meeting with Hamidti took place at an undisclosed location, and the attendees were only able to meet with him at 4 am the following day. The meeting lasted approximately half an hour, after which the attendees were left without knowledge of the meeting's location or the route taken to get there. These security arrangements are not limited to local delegations but also apply to meetings with military and political leaders, as well as members of the "transitional" government.
According to sources, the security measures for Hamidti's meetings are designed to prevent aerial attacks and other security threats. The meeting locations are not disclosed in advance, and the attendees are often unaware of the meeting's location or duration until they are underway. The security setup involves a combination of special forces and intelligence services working to ensure the safety of the meetings.
The security arrangements for Hamidti's meetings reflect the complex and challenging security environment in Darfur. The region has experienced ongoing conflict and instability, with various groups vying for power and influence. As a key figure in the region, Hamidti's meetings are subject to strict security protocols to minimize the risk of attacks or disruptions.
The measures in place for Hamidti's meetings highlight the delicate balance of power in Darfur and the need for caution in interactions between different groups and leaders. The situation remains volatile, with various stakeholders competing for influence and resources in the region.
Key points
- The meetings involve complex security procedures, including background checks and restricted access.