UK ‘tried to suppress criticism’ of alleged UAE role in arming Sudan’s RSF militia

The aftermath of an attack on Abu Shouk camp near El Fasher last month, when more than 100 people died. Photograph: Darfur Network for Human Rights

UK government officials attempted to suppress criticism of the United Arab Emirates and its alleged role in supplying arms to a notorious militia waging a campaign of ethnic cleansing in Sudan, sources have told the Guardian.

Claims that Foreign Office officials put pressure on African diplomats to avoid criticising the UAE over its alleged military support for Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) will intensify scrutiny of the UK’s relationship with the Gulf state.