Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille was brutally beaten by RSF soldiers while returning from a Eucharistic Congress, narrowly escaping what he termed martyrdom. This attack is part of the violent conflict in Sudan between RSF and SAF, which has led to thousands of deaths and acute humanitarian crises. Despite these challenges, Bishop Trille remains resolute in his commitment to his congregation.
Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille, the president of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, was severely beaten by soldiers from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on December 2, 2023, while returning from a Eucharistic Congress in South Sudan. Bishop Trille reported that he narrowly escaped martyrdom, stating the violence subsided only when a leader of the RSF intervened. This incident is emblematic of the ongoing conflict, which has lasted nearly two years, between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
The violence occurred shortly after Bishop Trille attended a significant Catholic Church event celebrating 50 years of hierarchy in the region. Following his participation in the Eucharistic Congress in Juba, he faced scrutiny at a military checkpoint due to routine searches for cash, during which soldiers confiscated a small sum of US dollars. Moments later, he was accosted by the RSF, who accused him of having connections to the Sovereign Council and targeted him based on his Nuba ethnicity, although his traveling companion of Nuer heritage was not assaulted.
This assault is not the first incident wherein Bishop Trille experienced life-threatening violence since the outbreak of war in April 2023, triggered by a power struggle between military leaders. The ongoing conflict has culminated in widespread casualties, significant displacement, and severe disruption of essential services, pushing millions into dire humanitarian crises, with food insecurity assessed as critically high by the United Nations.
Despite this harrowing experience, Bishop Remijo Adam of the Diocese of Wau affirmed Bishop Trille’s courage and his commitment to remain with his congregation during this time of conflict.
The situation in Sudan is characterized by a complex power struggle between military factions, leading to widespread violence and instability. Since April 2023, the country has been embroiled in conflict, primarily between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This power struggle has led to tens of thousands of deaths, considerable displacement, and the disintegration of crucial infrastructure, severely affecting humanitarian efforts and food security in the region. The Catholic Church in Sudan has faced significant challenges, with its clergy often caught in violent confrontations while striving to serve and protect their communities.
The attack on Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille illustrates the severe risks faced by religious leaders in conflict zones. Despite experiencing brutal violence, he remains dedicated to his mission amid the escalating turmoil in Sudan. The ongoing conflict continues to impact many lives, as shown by displaced populations and food crises affecting millions. Such incidents highlight the urgent need for international attention and humanitarian assistance to support those affected by the war in Sudan.
Original Source: aleteia.org
