Drone Strike on Umm Ruwaba Court Kills 13 Civilians

On September 9, 2026, a drone strike targeted the court building in Umm Ruwaba, North Kordofan State, resulting in the deaths of 13 civilians and injuries to 22 others. The attack, believed to have been carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), occurred around noon and directly hit the court facility, causing significant casualties among those inside and nearby.

Details of the Incident

According to a local government official, the drone strike specifically targeted the court building, leading to immediate fatalities and injuries. The Emergency Lawyers group condemned the attack, emphasizing that targeting judicial facilities and civilians constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law. They highlighted that such actions undermine justice institutions and endanger the lives of court staff and civilians.

Context and Implications

The United Nations Protection Group reported that North Kordofan recorded the highest number of drone attacks in Sudan in 2026, with at least 141 incidents reported by July 8. These attacks have disrupted basic services, civilian movement, and access to essential resources such as water and healthcare in and around El Obeid. The UN has warned that continued drone strikes on civilian areas and vital infrastructure threaten lives, drive further displacement, and hinder humanitarian access across the Kordofan region.

This incident underscores the escalating use of drone warfare in Sudan's ongoing conflict, raising concerns about the safety of civilians and the protection of critical infrastructure. The targeting of a judicial facility not only results in loss of life but also poses significant challenges to the administration of justice and the rule of law in the region.