Recent analysis of video evidence by BBC Verify has revealed shocking accounts of executions carried out by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) following their capture of the Sudanese city of el-Fasher. Disturbingly, multiple clips depict unarmed individuals being executed, highlighting the escalating violence in the region.
The videos, mainly recorded in remote and dusty areas, pose challenges for geolocation. However, one particular video has been pinpointed to a university building in el-Fasher. In this harrowing clip, an unarmed man is seen surrounded by numerous corpses in a hallway. As the footage progresses, the man turns to face the camera just as an armed RSF fighter descends the stairs. The fighter raises his rifle and fires a single shot, resulting in the immediate collapse of the unarmed victim. This tragic scene is a part of a broader trend of violence that has emerged following the RSF’s takeover of the city.
While many videos depicting the executions are circulating online, their origins are often difficult to trace due to minimal identifiable landmarks in the recordings. Nonetheless, BBC Verify has successfully identified one of the RSF fighters involved in the executions, known online as Abu Lulu, who has been active in the el-Fasher area in recent days. For further insights into the verification process of these disturbing clips, visit our detailed report.
In addition to the real footage of violence, a viral image depicting a woman and child in peril has also caught public attention. This image, which has garnered millions of views online, was actually created using artificial intelligence. It appears to showcase two armed men looming over a woman holding a young boy, with scorched ground in the background suggesting the destruction of homes.
So how do we know this image is AI-generated? There are several visual indicators, including the absence of shadows behind the woman, despite the shadows of the men being visible. The AI-generated image features a watermark that led us to an Instagram account where an animated version of the scene was first posted, explicitly labeling it as AI-generated content. The creator identifies as a “Creative AI Specialist” on their profile, further confirming the digital nature of the image. Moreover, running the image through Google’s deepfake detection tool revealed digital watermarks consistent with AI generation.
Meanwhile, in Ukraine, the situation in the strategic town of Pokrovsk remains critical as Russian forces intensify their assault. President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the dire circumstances in his recent address, emphasizing that Russian troops are concentrated in this area, making it one of the most challenging frontline positions.
Verification of footage shows a recently installed Russian flag at a key location in Pokrovsk, indicating territorial gains by Russian forces. This development has reportedly prompted drone strikes from both sides, further escalating the conflict. In a compilation video, drone strikes targeting the Russian flag are juxtaposed with footage of a Ukrainian flag also being struck, symbolizing the ongoing battle for control.
Shifting to the Caribbean, the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica has been catastrophic. Recent satellite imagery showcases the extent of destruction caused by the category five storm, which tragically resulted in the loss of four lives. The town of Black River, located on the island's south-west coast, has been reported as “totally destroyed” by Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
Before-and-after satellite images reveal widespread devastation, with significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The Black River has overflowed, leading to severe flooding and debris scattered throughout the town. Key structures, such as the Black River Market, have sustained heavy damage, with roofs torn off and many buildings rendered uninhabitable.
As we continue to monitor events worldwide, the situation remains dire in both Sudan and Ukraine, with escalating violence and humanitarian crises. The verified evidence of executions by the RSF in Sudan and the intensifying conflict in Pokrovsk serve as poignant reminders of the ongoing struggles faced by civilians in conflict zones. Additionally, the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica underscores the urgent need for disaster response and recovery efforts.
Stay tuned to BBC Verify for the latest updates and in-depth analyses of these critical global events.
