The UAE Trained and Sent Colombian Mercenaries to Sudan
Since April 2023, Sudan has been experiencing a devastating armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, resulting in thousands of deaths and millions of displaced people. In this context, reports have emerged regarding the UAE’s training and deployment of Colombian mercenaries to Sudan, alongside allegations of foreign military support, raising questions about the regional dimensions of this crisis.
Involvement of Colombian Militia Groups
Recent accusations have highlighted the UAE’s role in supporting the Rapid Support Forces, with Human Rights Watch releasing a detailed report titled “From Bogotá to El Fasher: The UAE’s Role in Sending Colombian Fighters and Providing Other Forms of Support to the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan.”
According to the report, several Colombian military contractors were hired by a UAE-based company, and these forces passed through UAE military bases before being deployed in Sudan to support the Rapid Support Forces. The report indicated that these activities represent “additional evidence” of UAE military support, as the Rapid Support Forces have committed “widespread atrocities” in the country.
Training at UAE Bases
The report stated that the recruitment of Colombian mercenaries was directed by private entities, with recruits undergoing training at a military base in Ghayathi, located in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. One contractor sent to Sudan mentioned that he bypassed immigration procedures upon arrival in the UAE and was directly transported to the base for training.
The “Conflict Insights Group” supports this finding, noting that the network of Colombian mercenaries has provided “crucial military support” to the Rapid Support Forces. It was revealed that over 50 mobile devices belonging to Colombian fighters were tracked between April 2025 and January 2026, indicating a vast logistical network connecting Bogotá and Abu Dhabi.
Involvement in Human Rights Violations
Reliable reports have shown videos documenting foreign military mercenaries fighting in El Fasher, while testimonies have recorded widespread violations there, including murder and rape. The United Nations International Fact-Finding Mission confirmed that these events exhibit “features of genocide.”
According to investigations, the Colombian mercenaries, known as “Desert Wolves,” have taken on various roles, including drone pilots and trainers. It is important to note that the recruitment and use of children in conflict is a war crime prohibited under international law.
International Response and Official Statements
Human Rights Watch has called for sanctions against those involved in providing military support to the Rapid Support Forces, including UAE officials. In response, the UAE denied these allegations, asserting that the assistance provided is humanitarian. UAE officials have stated that the country is facing a systematic smear campaign aimed at undermining its positive role in the region.
These events remain a focal point of ongoing discussions, prompting the international community to demand comprehensive investigations into the situation in Sudan, where the details of the violations and UAE involvement continue to be questioned. As the conflict persists, calls for inquiries into these allegations and accountability for those responsible are growing, aiming to ensure justice for the victims.