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The Sudanese commander known as Hemedti, previously made his fortune trading camels and gold. Now, his paramilitary Rapid Support Forces dominate around 50% of Sudan.

Seizing Power in Darfur

Hemedti's forces scored a significant triumph by capturing the city of el-Fasher, which was the final military stronghold in the Darfur area.

Hated and dreaded by his enemies, Hemedti is respected by his loyalists for his ruthlessness and his vow to tear down the discredited state.

Humble Beginnings

Hemedti's origins are modest. He hails from the Mahariya section of the Rizeigat tribe, an Arabic-speaking group that spans Chad and Darfur.

His birth year is approximately 1975, as is common in remote regions, his exact birth details were not officially registered.

Led by his uncle Juma Dagolo, his clan moved to Darfur in the late 20th century, fleeing conflict and in search of greener pastures.

Early Career

Dropping out of education in his adolescence, Hemedti began earning by dealing in livestock across the desert to neighboring countries.

At that time, Darfur was a lawless frontier—poor, ignored by the regime of then-President Omar al-Bashir.

Arab militiamen known as the Janjaweed attacked villages of the native Fur communities, triggering a major uprising in 2003.

Rise Through Violence

As a countermeasure, Bashir greatly enlarged the Janjaweed to lead his anti-rebel campaign. They soon became infamous for widespread atrocities.

Hemedti's force was part of this, accused in destroying the village of Adwa in November 2004, killing over a hundred individuals, including 36 children.

A US investigation determined that the Janjaweed were guilty of genocide.

Calculated Moves

After the height of violence in 2004, Hemedti skillfully navigated his ascent to become head of a influential militia, a business network, and a political organization.

At one point he rebelled, requesting unpaid salaries for his soldiers, promotions, and a political position for his sibling. Bashir granted many of his requests.

Later, when rival militias mutinied, Hemedti led government forces that crushed them, taking over Darfur's largest artisanal gold mine at Jabel Amir.

Rapidly, his family company Al-Gunaid became the top gold exporter in Sudan.

Institutionalizing Influence

In 2013, Hemedti asked for and received formal status as head of the newly formed Rapid Support Forces, reporting directly to Bashir.

Former militiamen were absorbed into the RSF, getting modern equipment and training.

International Connections

The RSF fought in the Darfur conflict, struggled in the Nuba Mountains, and took on a contract to police the Libyan frontier.

Ostensibly curbing illicit migration, Hemedti's officers also excelled at extortion and people-trafficking.

By 2015, Gulf nations asked Sudanese troops for the war in Yemen. Hemedti struck his own agreement to provide RSF mercenaries.

His ties with the UAE proved highly significant, marking the start of a close relationship with Emirati leadership.

Growing Power

Young Sudanese men trekked to RSF recruiting centers for cash payments of up to $6,000.

Hemedti struck a partnership with Russia's Wagner Group, gaining expertise in exchange for commercial dealings, including in gold.

He visited Moscow occurred on the day of the invasion of Ukraine.

Turning on Allies

With rising demonstrations, Bashir ordered Hemedti's units to the city of Khartoum, nicknaming him himayti.

This backfired. In April 2019, when demonstrators called for change, Bashir instructed troops to shoot. Instead, the military leaders overthrew him.

Initially, Hemedti was celebrated as a fresh face for Sudan. He tried to reposition himself, but that lasted only weeks.

Return to Violence

As the transition stalled, Hemedti deployed his forces, which killed hundreds, raped women, and reportedly executed men in the Nile.

Hemedti has denied that the RSF committed atrocities.

Under foreign pressure, the military and civil leaders reached a deal, leading to an uneasy partnership for several years.

Ongoing War

As an investigation began examining military-owned companies, Burhan and Hemedti dismissed the civilians and took control.

But they fell out. Burhan demanded the RSF come under army command. Hemedti refused.

Last year, RSF units moved to surround key bases in the capital. The attempted putsch was unsuccessful, and fighting erupted across the city.

Conflict intensified in Darfur, with the RSF mounting a vicious campaign against the Masalit community.

The UN estimates thousands of casualties, with the American officials calling it genocide.

Current Status

Hemedti's forces obtained modern weapons, including military drones, deployed against army positions and crucial in the capture of el-Fasher.

Equipped thus, the RSF is in a deadlock with the Sudanese army.

Hemedti has formed a rival administration, the "Government of Peace and Unity", appointing himself leader.

After taking al-Fasher, the RSF now controls the majority of populated areas in western Sudan.

After allegations of mass killings, Hemedti announced a probe into abuses committed by his fighters.

Many believe Hemedti sees himself as president of a breakaway state or aspires to rule all of Sudan.

Alternatively, he may become a political puppet master, controlling businesses, a mercenary army, and a political party.

While Hemedti's troops continue atrocities in al-Fasher, he seems assured of avoiding consequences in a global community that overlooks.